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Q:

I've blacked out several times in the past month from drinking alcohol. What is happening to your body when you "black out" and how does this occur?

 

A:

"Black outs", or lacking memory for events while under the influence of alcohol, are a sign of late stage alcohol dependency, where you are consuming enough alcohol to anesthetize your brain though you are able to tolerate the alcohol level in your blood enough to keep walking, talking, having sex, or even driving. This is exceedingly dangerous for you and others around you as your judgment is very impaired as well as your ability to respond to hazardous situations.

This is a signal that you have a significant alcohol problem, especially as it is occurring with greater frequency. You can contact our Alcohol Counselor at 650-3643 to set up a consultation time, or come to the Counseling Center or Health Center for an evaluation. Off campus resources are available too through St. Joseph Hospital if you call 715-6526.

                     ~The Doc