What are alcohol's cognitive effects?

Alcohol has several cognitive effects that impact various brain functions. When alcohol crosses the blood-brain barrier, it affects neurons and glial cells indiscriminately, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for impulse control and decision-making. This suppression leads to reduced inhibition, resulting in behaviors like louder speech, spontaneity, and impulsiveness 1.

Alcohol also has a significant impact on memory. It can disrupt the neural networks involved in memory formation and storage, leading to blackouts or forgotten events 1. Moreover, certain individuals may experience increased alertness and mood when drinking, which might indicate a predisposition towards alcoholism 2.

Additionally, alcohol affects the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, altering stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which can further influence cognitive and emotional responses 3.

It is also important to note that alcohol can fragment sleep and significantly reduce REM sleep, which is necessary for cognitive functions such as memory and emotional regulation. This can leave individuals feeling unrested and more emotionally sensitive 4.