The negative effect of alcohol on our mental health is significant. Alcohol can contribute to the development of mental health problems including depression and anxiety. It can also make existing problems worse. And you may experience memory issues or find it hard to concentrate. Alcohol is a depressant that disrupts how the brain functions. It affects our thoughts, feelings and actions. Alcohol affects the levels of chemicals in our brain including serotonin, which regulates happiness. This change to the brain processes causes the relaxed or happy feeling you may get after your first drink. This same change is also responsible for the feelings of anxiety, sadness or depression you may experience the next day. Regularly drinking more than the HSE low-risk weekly guidelines interferes with these chemicals in our brains that are needed for strong, balanced mental health