Is Alcohol a Depressant?

A message from Amatus Health CEO Mark Gold

To Our Dedicated Amatus Team Members:

As we follow the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the global community, the health and safety of our employees and clients remains our top priority.

Our company serves a population that needs us the most during this most unsettling and unprecedented time. We, as the corporate teams, hold vital functions to support and allow our front lines, our facilities, to operate and provide quality care. Because our facilities’ services are contingent on our work, our offices will remain open until mandated otherwise by governing bodies.

Just as it is our mission to care for our clients and be there in time of need, it is on that same token that we take pride in caring for the needs of our employees. To that end, please:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.

Stay home when you are sick.

When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with fixed elbow or tissue, and throw away the tissue immediately, wash hands after as well.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Do not shake hands.

Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet whenever possible.

We recognize that you may have concerns and circumstances that would make it difficult for you to work from the office. If this is the case, please reach out to your supervisor to discuss further. Depending on your role, scope of responsibilities and the reason for your absence, you may be allowed to work from home at your supervisor’s discretion. If remote work doesn’t meet the approved criteria or if working remotely is not possible, you will be asked to utilize your PTO if you do not wish to come to the office.

We have amazing teams across Amatus and its companies. This moment reminds us that we’re all connected. We’re called upon to be our best selves with patience, understanding and compassion, so that we may stay committed and persevere together in all the days and years ahead.

As we go forward, we’ll be sure to keep you updated, and know that we always value your questions and feedback.

If you have any questions, please direct them to your supervisor.

Mark Gold | Chief Executive Officer

People drink alcohol for various reasons–to relax, unwind, or be social. In small amounts, many people feel the stimulating effects of drinking, such as being more talkative or energized. So how does this fit in with the standard question, “Is alcohol a depressant?” Alcohol is clearly classified as one type of drug. The effects a person feels from drinking, however, depends on how much he drinks.

Effects of Drinking

Some people drink to loosen up in social situations; if they have a glass or two of an alcoholic beverage, it’s easier for them to talk to other people. Others enjoy the energetic boost they get from a drink because it spurs them to take action that they might be too inhibited to make without it.

Because of this, you might believe that alcohol is a stimulant. After all, once you have a drink or two, you’re having a good time and ready to party all night. You may feel a sense of camaraderie with everyone around you.

Those are some effects from moderate amounts of alcohol. So is alcohol a depressant or a stimulant?

Despite the stimulating feelings you may feel if you have a moderate amount of alcohol, it’s classified as a depressant. Although alcohol dependence often goes hand-in-hand with depression, its effect on a person’s mental health isn’t what puts it in that category.

Depressant drugs—and alcohol is a drug—slow down the body’s nervous system. This slowing quality is what makes you feel relaxed when you have a drink or two. It’s also what causes delayed reaction times, one of the characteristics that make drinking and driving so dangerous.

The more a person drinks, the more the depressant effects are felt. A person can experience slowed respiration and a loss of coordination. Poor judgment and a complete lack of inhibitions are other consequences. Drinking copious amounts of alcohol can lead to unconsciousness and blackouts.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Is alcohol a depressant?”, the answer is yes.

Break Free of Addiction

Whether it’s alcohol, opiates, or another substance you want to break free of, there’s drug and alcohol detox Houston offers that can help. Serenity House Detox is a facility ready to give you the fresh, clean start you need for a sober future.

Before the rest of your recovery journey can begin, you’ll have to go through detox. Instead of trying to do this alone, partner with our quality center that provides a safer, more comfortable process. We offer:

Is alcohol a depressant? Absolutley. If you or a loved one needs help transforming your life from an alcohol addiction, call us today. You don’t have to face an uncertain future with any addiction. You can experience sobriety and healing by reaching out to Serenity House Detox at 866.516.8356.