HRB National Drugs Library

Background 

Alcohol use is responsible for four deaths every day in Ireland and causes many conditions, such as alcohol dependence and alcohol-related liver disease, as well as common health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.1 

The Health Research Board (HRB) periodically publishes alcohol overviews to collate information about alcohol use as well as related harms; the most recent of these was published in April 2024.1

Background

Alcohol-related brain injury (ARBI) is a term that encompasses various conditions associated with heavy and prolonged alcohol use.1-3 Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome are the two most commonly known conditions, and develop as a result of thiamine deficiency (vitamin B1).4 Most at risk are those with alcohol dependency who may substitute food with alcohol. Their poor diet, and particularly the lack of vitamin B1, as well as alcohol interfering with the absorption and metabolism of vitamin B1, increase the risk of developing thiamine deficiency, and consequently ARBI. 

Symptoms of ARBI include a cognitive impairment and behavioural changes, including short-term memory loss, an inability of the brain to shift focus from one task or idea to another, limited attention span or ability to focus, difficulty regulating self-control (both behaviourally and emotionally), difficulty with decision-making, and diminished social interaction. 

Cannabis has been shown to be linked to the development of psychotic illness. Although it has been legalised in many jurisdictions over the last 20 years, its apparent detrimental effects on mental health has slowed its legalisation on a widespread basis in Europe. However, a possible consequence of continuing illegality is that users in an unregulated environment are consuming high-potency or synthetic cannabinoids, which may also lead to adverse effects, including psychosis.1