Why people drink alcohol

“Just because it's fun.” You often hear that as the reason why people drink alcohol. Alcohol is associated with sociability. Going out together, visiting friends, going to a terrace, going out for a nice meal: with a glass of wine or beer or a nicely dressed cocktail: for many people it finishes it off.

“Alcohol is tasty.” Also scores well. There is something for every taste: sweet and dry wine. White, brown, rosé beer. Very sweet liqueurs, spicy herbal drinks and strong whiskeys.

“To forget my worries.” Alcohol can make you feel a little numb. That you relax or that you become happier. This can easily turn into melancholy or make you feel much worse.

“It gives me confidence.” You can move a little more easily, have a little more guts: alcohol can loosen you up. The risk is that the brakes will go completely loose, that you can no longer properly monitor your limits and that you will regret it afterwards.

The dividing line between positive and negative effects of alcohol consumption is thin and unpredictable. It depends on your condition, the situation and the type of alcohol when a tipping point is reached.