The Impacts of Drugs on the Brain
Department of Psychology, Grand Canyon University
PSY 102: General Psychology
2
The Impacts of Drugs on the Brain
The substance to be discussed here is alcohol, one of the most consumed substances
globally and highly addictive. Most people are not aware of the severe risks that involve the
consumption of alcohol and the high level of danger it inflicts on health and safety. The
following paper addresses the effects of alcohol upon the brain, its effects upon sensation,
perception, and consciousness, and those factors that pre-dispose a person to be more vulnerable
to addiction
Drug Description
, Alcohol is classified as a depressant drug which functions by reducing the speed at which signals
are transmitted between the brain and other body parts. Most people consume alcoholic
beverages to feel intoxicated or drunk, or simply put, euphoria. The International Agency for
Research on Cancer says, "Ethanol and water are the main components of most alcoholic
beverages, although in some very sweet liqueurs, the sugar can be higher than the ethanol
content" International Agency for Research on Cancer, para.1. Alcohol, upon consumption,
affects mood, cognition, and behavior. It comes in many forms such as beer, wine, seltzers, and
vodka. Many are the individuals who purchase and consume alcohol since among the drugs, it is
the most accessible and sold anywhere.