To answer the question “is alcohol a drug?” we first have to define what a drug is. A drug is any substance that has physiological effects on the body. By that definition, alcohol is definitely a drug. Although it is legal and a socially accepted substance in the United States, it is still just as dangerous as other substances classified as drugs.
Alcohol acts as a depressant that can slow down vital functions and impair perception. There are several kinds of ethyl alcohol that are created by fermenting fruits and grains. All types of alcohol produce the same dulling effects and are equally dangerous.
Is Alcohol A Drug?
Alcohol consumption causes an array of side effects, most of which depress vital systems and perception. Impaired motor skills and mental ability are not only dangerous on their own but can also lead to perilous situations such as drunk driving.
Someone consuming alcohol may exhibit symptoms such as:
- Drowsiness
- Lowered inhibitions
- Disorientation and lack of coordination
- Memory loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty breathing
If the person continues drinking, they may fall unconscious or become at risk for alcohol poisoning. Like other drugs, alcohol also leads to many long-term problems. Over time, alcohol addiction can cause:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular issues
- Liver disease and failure
- Nerve and brain damage
- Ulcers
- Gastritis
- Cirrhosis
- Cancer
Before alcohol addiction leads to these severely damaging health problems, it’s important to find a professional rehab clinic that can help the user recover.
Alcohol Addiction
Because alcohol is such a common drug in everyday society, many people wonder “is alcohol a drug?” and don’t realize that they can become addicted to it. In addition to the short and long-term damage alcohol addiction can cause the body, alcohol can also cause withdrawal symptoms the same way other drugs do.
Young people are at an especially high risk for developing alcohol addiction. Although the legal drinking age in the United States is 21, many young people begin drinking long before then. Whether from peer pressure, curiosity, or low self-esteem, an alcohol addiction can begin at a very young age.
On top of the short and long-term damage that alcohol causes the body, young people are often at higher risk for making poor decisions. Many young people that consume alcohol become involved in fatal car accidents as a result of drunk driving. Luckily, there are young adult rehab programs available to help them work through the unique challenges they face with alcohol addiction. Red Oak Recovery® not only offers programs for young adults, we have other specialized programs:
Recovery from Alcohol Addiction
An alcohol addiction may develop so slowly that you may not even realize you have one. But, it’s better to address any concerns before it’s too late. Once you understand the answer to “is alcohol a drug?” and decide that it’s time to find help, contact us. We’ll customize a treatment plan that will jump start your road to recovery.
Whether for yourself, a friend, or a loved one, there are a number of options and personalized treatments available at Red Oak Recovery®. Today is the day to start recovery. The number to call is 866-457-7590.
