When and Where to Say When

1)     Drinking while depressed – We’ve all heard the phrase “drowning your sorrows” about drinking while in a funk after losing a job, breaking up with a loved one or some other stressor. And there’s something to be said about relaxing and easing anxiety with a drink. But nearly one-third of people who have been diagnosed with major depression has an alcohol problem. Research shows that drinking makes depression worse because people who are in throes of depression tend to drink too much and too often. This can impair judgement and lead to thoughts of suicide or other rash actions. A heavy drinker is also likely to be less affected by antidepressant medication and may overdose, particularly if combining alcohol with the medication.

2)    Drinking while pregnant or trying to conceive – Women who are already pregnant can induce fetal alcohol syndrome if they drink at certain stages of the pregnancy, which can affect fetal development and intellectual capacity. For couples who are trying to conceive, alcohol can reduce sperm motility and cause impotence. There’s also the possibility of injury and potentially miscarrying if you are drunk.

3)    Drinking at work – A certain way to get fired at most jobs is to drink on the job or show up impaired. Don’t think that a few breath mints will disguise the condition. The florid complexion, watery and bloodshot eyes, and the unsteady gait will be the evidence. In certain occupations, drinking on the job is cause for potential prosecution (such as operating public transportation) or a factor in potential lawsuits (would you want your surgeon drinking?). But general interactions with customers can be sabotaged by poor judgement and performance while under the influence.