The Truth About Alcohol & Drugs
Let’s be real—there’s a LOT of misinformation out there when it comes to alcohol and drugs. And we should always be careful where we are getting our information. If there is one thing most couldn’t argue, it’s that drugs and alcohol are substances meant to be controlled. Our bodies aren’t built to break them down and process them like natural foods and proteins. It’s not to say that we cannot enjoy a glass of red wine, which has been known to have some health benefits. Just that it’s important to step back and uncover what’s the truth and what’s myth?
Myth #1: “I Can Sober Up Quickly with Coffee or a Cold Shower”
I hate to break it to you, but no amount of coffee, cold showers, or jumping jacks will magically make you sober. The only thing that actually sobers you up is time. Your liver needs to process alcohol, and that takes time. Some say it takes 20 minutes for the alcohol serving to process, others say up to one hour. Either way, a cup of coffee won’t do it. If you’ve been out drinking, don’t think a cup of coffee will make you good to drive. It might make you feel more awake, but you’ll still be impaired.
Myth #2: “Prescription Drugs Are Safer Than Street Drugs”
Just because a doctor prescribes something doesn’t mean it’s automatically safe—especially if you’re misusing it. Painkillers, sedatives, and stimulants can be just as addictive and dangerous as illegal drugs when taken improperly. Mixing them with alcohol? Even riskier. Always follow your doctor’s instructions, and if you’re unsure, ask questions.
Myth #3: “I Only Drink on Weekends, So I’m OK”
Drinking heavily, even just on weekends, can still have serious effects on your health and well-being. Having four or more drinks in one sitting for women, five or more for men—can increase your risk of liver damage, accidents, and long-term dependency. Just because it’s not daily doesn’t mean it’s harmless.
Myth #4: “Weed Isn’t Addictive” and “I Can Drive After I Smoke”
While weed isn’t as physically addictive as some other substances, it can be habit-forming. Some people develop a dependence where they rely on it to relax, sleep, or deal with stress. Plus, today’s strains are much stronger than what was around decades ago, which can make dependency more likely. Also, driving while under the influence doesn’t just mean alcohol. Driving while high is still dangerous and illegal.
Myth #5: “Mixing Alcohol and Energy Drinks Makes You More Alert”
Mixing alcohol with energy drinks can actually be dangerous. The caffeine masks the depressant effects of alcohol, making you feel more awake than you actually are. This can lead to drinking more than you realize, increasing the risk of alcohol poisoning and of course poor decision-making. If you’re drinking, skip the energy drinks, but as always if you drink, do it responsibly.
The Truth is…
Misuse of alcohol and drugs can lead to risky choices and even potentially dangerous situations. Knowing the facts helps you make smarter decisions. Whether it’s drinking responsibly, taking medications as prescribed, or understanding the risks, a little knowledge goes a long way. So enjoy that red wine, just do it sensibly.
