Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant—not a stimulant as many people think. Alcohol slows down activity in the central nervous system, including the brain. Depressants affect concentration and coordination, and slow the response time to unexpected situations. In small quantities, depressants such as alcohol cause people to become relaxed and lower their inhibitions. They feel more confident and often act in a more extroverted manner. In larger quantities, depressants can cause unconsciousness and death. Benzodiazepines, heroin and cannabis are also depressant drugs.