What exactly is alcohol?

Alcohol is a widely used psychoactive substance that plays a significant role in Germany. It is often consumed on social occasions due to its disinhibiting and relaxing effects and is an integral part of German culture (Yesil, 2021).

How many people suffer from harmful consumption in Germany and worldwide?

• Germany: 9 million (Federal Ministry of Health, 2021
• 59.2% of students at RPTU (TUKL at the time of the survey) consume alcoholic beverages at least twice a month, 20.3% of respondents drink six or more alcoholic beverages at an event at least once a month (UHR,2021)
• 32.2% of respondents also report problematic alcohol consumption (UHR, 2021)

What does drinking make worse and what are the benefits of quitting?

Consumption worsens both physical and mental health. Alcohol can cause structural and functional changes in the brain, leading to impaired cognitive function such as decision-making, memory, attention and executive functions. Alcohol also weakens the immune system, increases the risk of infections and can lead to alcohol-induced psychosis. Alcohol also causes heart problems, liver damage, sexual dysfunction and increases the risk of various types of cancer. The negative effects of alcohol consumption thus impair the quality of life and can ultimately lead to serious health problems and a shortened life expectancy. Quitting can lead to a significant improvement in physical and mental health (Yesil, 2021).

What can I do about it or how do I manage to stop?

In order to reduce alcohol consumption or stop altogether, those affected can seek professional help, such as withdrawal programs, medication support and psychotherapeutic care (Yesil, 2021).

Are there help centers and support services and how do I behave as a relative of someone with an addiction?

There are various help centers such as addiction counseling centers, self-help groups and therapeutic facilities that offer support for both those affected and their relatives. Relatives can make an important contribution to recovery through openness, understanding and support (Yesil, 2021).

Are there also positive sides to consuming alcohol and why do people consume it?

Although alcohol can have short-term positive effects such as relaxation and mental Wellbeing, these benefits are offset by the significant health and social risks associated with excessive consumption. The reasons for consumption are varied, but the negative effects clearly outweigh the positive ones. Reasons for consumption can include social norms and cultural traditions, social warming, relaxation, self-reward, stress management, peer pressure and addiction to positive emotions such as happiness and euphoria. The negative effects of alcohol consumption include a variety of health problems already mentioned above. In addition, social consequences such as job loss, relationship problems, loss of housing and a loss of social environment can occur (Yesil, 2021).