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Addiction: Alcohol

How does it affect mood?

Happy drinkers
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Although people drink to get happy, alcohol is actually described as a depressant by medics. Psychologically, its effects are 'plastic', says Andrew McNeill, director of the Institute for Alcohol Studies. In other words, the effect on mood will be determined by the social context – whether you’re at a wedding, or a funeral – and how you were feeling before you had a drink.

EthanolHopsOld ale houseWedding scene
Monkey eating fruitHappy drinkersPacked barDrunk
Scans of the brainBlurred image of road aheadOffice worker at their deskPerson under anaesthetic
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