What Really Happens When You Drink Too Much

Ever have one of those nights? You're settled in for a Netflix marathon, wearing your comfiest pajamas, with snacks within easy reach. Then you think, "A glass of wine would be perfect right now." Before you know it, one glass becomes two, then three—and suddenly the whole bottle is gone. What was supposed to be an evening of suspenseful entertainment turns into a blur as you stumble off to bed.

What just happened? How did your relaxing night turn into a foggy memory with an upset stomach and scattered thoughts? Let's explore the reality of what being drunk actually feels like.

Alcohol's Effect on Your Brain

Alcohol might seem like a fun social companion, but it quietly works its way into your brain and body systems. Its first target is your central nervous system—your brain—which controls your actions, thoughts, and emotions.

When alcohol enters your brain, it interacts with neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers that regulate your mental state. Alcohol has two main targets: glutamate and GABA. Glutamate speeds up brain activity, while GABA slows it down.

Alcohol plays a tricky game—it suppresses glutamate while boosting GABA. This is why the room might start spinning, your movements become clumsy, and words seem to escape you when you're trying to speak.

The False Social Confidence

Have you noticed how after a drink or two, you suddenly become more outgoing? You might crack jokes and chat easily with people who normally make you nervous. This happens because alcohol stimulates your brain's reward system.

It increases dopamine levels, creating that warm, fuzzy feeling that everything is wonderful—regardless of what's actually happening around you. While this feels great in the moment, remember it's temporary. The confidence and lowered inhibitions come from the alcohol, not from any real change in your personality.

When Coordination Fails

Alcohol can make you feel invincible—like you're an amazing dancer or the funniest person in the room. But alcohol isn't just granting wishes; it's also interfering with your basic motor skills.

Walking in a straight line becomes challenging, forming coherent sentences feels difficult, and your coordination disappears. This explains those mysterious bruises you might find the next day or the unremembered stumbles—all courtesy of alcohol's effect on your brain.

The Morning After Reality

Alcohol's effects don't end when you go to sleep. It continues affecting your body throughout the night, disrupting your sleep cycle, causing dehydration, and upsetting your stomach. The next day brings pounding headaches, extreme thirst, and digestive discomfort.

This is the unglamorous truth about drinking—it's not all fun and games. It affects your brain, your body, and your overall well-being.

Taking Control of Your Drinking

The good news is that it's never too late to cut back or quit alcohol. Here are some practical steps to help you on your journey:

• Start small: Set achievable goals like "no drinking during weekdays" or "limit to one drink per social event"
• Find alternatives: Instead of reaching for alcohol during relaxing moments, try non-alcoholic beer, flavored water, or herbal tea
• Talk about it: Share your decision with friends and family—they can provide valuable support
• Seek professional help: If you're struggling to cut back or quit, don't hesitate to contact healthcare professionals or support groups
• Reward yourself: Set milestones and celebrate your progress with treats like a new book or special outing

Everyone's relationship with alcohol is different, and there's no single solution that works for everyone. But every step you take toward reducing or eliminating alcohol is a step toward better health and happiness. Next time you're cozy in your pajamas for a Netflix night, consider reaching for hot chocolate instead. Your brain and body will appreciate it!