... is a depressant that affects the central nervous system (CNS). Excessive amounts enhances activates of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, which cause unwanted behaviours and motor coordination problems (Hanchar, Dodson, Olsen, Otis & Wallner, 2005). On the other hand, moderate amounts slows down the actions of the sympathetic nervous system and activates neural firing which make drinkers feel relaxed and confident in social situations. Leifman et al. (1995; as cited in Pitts & Phillips, 1998) reported better social skills in moderate drinkers compared to high or non drinkers. Alcohol can also act like a sedative by enhancing the activities of the neurotransmitter GABA which causes drinkers to feel less anxious. Other neurotransmitters are also affected such as serotonin levels get lower (Fil-Aime el al., 1996), dopamine levels increase which makes drinkers feel cheerful and confident and endogenous opioid are activated which are the bodies natural pain killers. Such positive ...

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