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Alcohol's impact on your health and wellbeing

Cutting back or cutting out alcohol reduces your risk of long-term chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and stroke. 

It also leads to short-term benefits like improved sleep, mood, and overall mental health, as well as clearer skin, improved concentration and increased energy levels. 

Read on to discover how alcohol affects your health. 

In this section

Alcohol and your body

Drinking less, or not at all, is a positive step you can take. Find out the many short and long-term benefits to your body and mind.

Alcohol and cancer

Alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen and is linked to at least seven kinds of cancer. 

Alcohol and mental health

Alcohol can contribute to the development or worsening of mental health concerns. 

Alcohol and pregnancy

Make the moment you start trying for a baby the moment to stop drinking alcohol. 

Breastfeeding and alcohol

Why avoiding alcohol can set your baby up for the healthiest start to life. 

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

FASD is the leading preventable developmental disability in Australia. 

Need advice or support?

To find a local GP, you can call 1800 022 222 or visit healthdirect.gov.au. To find a local psychologist, visit psychology.org.au/find-a-psychologist. If you need other support to reduce your drinking, you can contact the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.

Join our community

Will you join the community taking action on alcohol?