Physically, alcohol affects many of the body’s organs and systems. It can irritate the stomach lining, make people lose their balance, throw up, and become unable to focus or speak clearly.
In rare circumstances an overdose — known as alcohol poisoning — can kill.
Emotionally, it can make young people stressed, angry, and violent.
Mentally, it can interfere with normal brain development.
It affects learning and memory, slows reactions, and often makes kids lose interest in getting good grades and staying in school.
In other cases, usually in larger amounts, it can act as a depressant, potentially leading to sleep, comas, and even death.
In some situations alcohol reduces inhibitions, leading to a wide range of risky situations.
Drinking too much over a long period of time can damage major organs, including the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and bone marrow.