What Are the Differences Between Being Drunk and Being High?

Discover the differences between being drunk and being high. Explore the physical, mental, and emotional effects. Legal implications included.

By Surfpoint Recovery Staff

Published on

May 12, 2024

Understanding the Effects

When it comes to the effects of substances on the body and mind, it's important to explore the specific effects of alcohol and cannabis. Understanding these effects can provide insight into the differences between being drunk and being high.

Exploring the Effects of Alcohol

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that affects the body and mind in various ways. Some of the key effects of alcohol consumption include:

Impaired Coordination: Alcohol can affect motor skills and coordination, leading to unsteady movements and difficulty performing tasks that require fine motor skills.
Slowed Reaction Time: Alcohol can slow down the brain's processing speed, resulting in delayed reactions and impaired judgment.
Euphoria and Relaxation: Alcohol consumption can initially produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation, which may contribute to its social appeal.
Reduced Inhibitions: Alcohol can lower inhibitions and lead to a decrease in self-control, potentially resulting in behavior that one might not engage in while sober.
Nausea and Vomiting: Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, leading to feelings of nausea and, in some cases, vomiting.
Hangover: The day after consuming alcohol, individuals may experience symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and dehydration, collectively known as a hangover.

Exploring the Effects of Cannabis

Cannabis, on the other hand, contains compounds called cannabinoids that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. The effects of cannabis can vary depending on factors such as the strain, method of consumption, and individual tolerance. Some common effects of cannabis use include:

Euphoria and Relaxation: Cannabis can induce feelings of relaxation, happiness, and euphoria, often referred to as a "high."
Altered Perception: Cannabis can alter sensory perception, leading to changes in how individuals perceive time, colors, sounds, and tastes.
Increased Appetite: Cannabis use is commonly associated with an increased appetite, often referred to as "the munchies."
Dry Mouth and Red Eyes: Cannabis can cause dry mouth (cottonmouth) and redness in the eyes due to its impact on saliva production and blood vessels.
Impaired Memory and Focus: Cannabis use can impair short-term memory and attention span, making it more challenging to recall recent events or concentrate on tasks.
Relief of Pain and Discomfort: Certain cannabinoids in cannabis have analgesic properties and may provide relief from pain and discomfort.

Understanding the specific effects of alcohol and cannabis is crucial for making informed decisions and understanding the potential risks and benefits associated with their consumption. It's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and personal tolerance can influence the intensity of these effects.

Physical Effects

When comparing the effects of being drunk and being high, it's important to consider the physical symptoms that accompany these states. Both alcohol and cannabis can have noticeable impacts on the body, although the specific effects may differ.

Physical Symptoms of Being Drunk

Being drunk, or intoxicated from alcohol consumption, can lead to a range of physical symptoms. These symptoms can vary depending on the amount of alcohol consumed and individual factors such as tolerance and body size. Some common physical symptoms of being drunk include:

Physical Symptoms of Being Drunk

Slurred speech
Impaired coordination and balance
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Flushed skin
Nausea and vomiting
Headaches
Drowsiness or fatigue
Increased urination
Hangover symptoms (e.g., dehydration, headache, fatigue)

It's important to note that alcohol affects various bodily systems, including the central nervous system and organs like the liver, which can contribute to these physical symptoms.

Physical Symptoms of Being High

Being high, or experiencing the effects of cannabis use, can also result in physical symptoms. However, these symptoms may differ from those associated with alcohol intoxication. Physical symptoms of being high can include:

Physical Symptoms of Being High

Bloodshot or red eyes
Dry mouth and increased thirst
Increased heart rate
Altered perception of time
Relaxation or sedation
Appetite stimulation (commonly known as "the munchies")
Coordination and motor skill impairment (e.g., slowed reaction time)
Blood vessel dilation
Enhanced sensory perception (e.g., intensified taste, touch, or sound)

Cannabis affects the endocannabinoid system in the body, which is involved in regulating various physiological processes, contributing to these physical symptoms.

While both alcohol and cannabis can impact physical well-being, it's essential to recognize that the specific physical effects can vary depending on the individual, the amount consumed, and other factors. Understanding these differences can help individuals make informed choices and better understand the effects of being drunk or being high.

Mental Effects

When comparing the effects of being drunk and being high, it's important to consider the cognitive impact of alcohol and cannabis. Both substances can have significant effects on mental functioning, although the specific effects may differ.

Cognitive Effects of Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system, including the brain. When consumed in excess, alcohol can impair cognitive function and lead to various cognitive effects. These effects can include:

Impaired judgment and decision-making
Decreased inhibitions and increased risk-taking behavior
Difficulty concentrating and reduced attention span
Slowed reaction time and impaired coordination
Memory impairment and blackouts

The severity of these cognitive effects can vary depending on the amount of alcohol consumed and individual tolerance. It's important to note that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can result in severe cognitive impairment and even loss of consciousness.

Cognitive Effects of Cannabis

Cannabis, on the other hand, contains cannabinoids that interact with the brain's endocannabinoid system, producing psychoactive effects. The cognitive effects of cannabis can vary depending on the strain, method of consumption, and individual factors. Some common cognitive effects of cannabis may include:

Altered perception of time and space
Impaired short-term memory and difficulty with concentration
Difficulty in problem-solving and decision-making
Decreased cognitive flexibility and creativity
Enhanced sensory perception and attention to details

It's important to note that the cognitive effects of cannabis can vary significantly depending on the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content, which is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Higher THC concentrations may result in more pronounced cognitive effects.

To provide a clearer comparison, here is a table summarizing the cognitive effects of alcohol and cannabis:

Cognitive Effects of Alcohol and Cannabis

Cognitive Effects	Alcohol	Cannabis
Impaired judgment and decision-making	✔	✔
Decreased inhibitions and increased risk-taking behavior	✔	✔
Difficulty concentrating and reduced attention span	✔	✔
Slowed reaction time and impaired coordination	✔
Memory impairment and blackouts	✔	✔
Altered perception of time and space		✔
Impaired short-term memory and difficulty with concentration	✔
Difficulty in problem-solving and decision-making	✔
Decreased cognitive flexibility and creativity	✔
Enhanced sensory perception and attention to details	✔

Understanding the cognitive effects of both alcohol and cannabis is important for individuals to make informed decisions regarding their consumption. It's crucial to prioritize responsible use and be aware of how these substances can impact cognitive function.

Emotional Effects

When comparing the effects of being drunk and being high, it's important to consider the emotional impact that alcohol and cannabis can have on individuals. Both substances can influence emotions and mood, albeit in different ways. Let's explore the emotional effects of alcohol and cannabis separately.

Emotional Impact of Alcohol

Alcohol is known to affect emotions and can lead to shifts in mood. The emotional impact of alcohol can vary from person to person, but some common effects include:

Euphoria: Alcohol consumption can initially induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. This is often referred to as the "buzz" that some individuals seek when consuming alcohol.
Lowered inhibitions: Alcohol can lower inhibitions and reduce social anxiety, leading to increased sociability and confidence in some individuals.
Aggression: In some cases, alcohol consumption can lead to increased aggression or irritability. This can be influenced by factors such as the individual's personality, the amount of alcohol consumed, and the context in which it is consumed.
Depression and sadness: While alcohol may initially have a positive impact on mood, excessive consumption or alcohol misuse can lead to depression, sadness, or mood swings. Alcohol is a depressant, and excessive use can disrupt the brain's chemical balance.

Emotional Impact of Cannabis

Cannabis, on the other hand, can also impact emotions and mood, but in distinct ways from alcohol. The emotional impact of cannabis can include:

Euphoria and relaxation: Cannabis use often induces feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and a sense of well-being. This is due to the psychoactive compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) binding to certain receptors in the brain.
Heightened sensory experiences: Cannabis can enhance sensory perception, leading to intensified emotions and experiences of pleasure, such as enjoying food or music more intensely.
Anxiety and paranoia: In some individuals, cannabis use can lead to heightened anxiety or paranoia. This is more likely to occur with higher THC concentrations or in individuals prone to anxiety disorders.
Mood fluctuations: Cannabis use can lead to mood fluctuations, with some individuals experiencing a range of emotions, including happiness, introspection, or even sadness.

It's important to note that individual reactions to both alcohol and cannabis can vary significantly. Factors such as dosage, frequency of use, individual tolerance, and personal susceptibility can all influence the emotional effects experienced by different individuals.

Understanding the emotional impact of alcohol and cannabis is crucial for making informed decisions regarding their use. It's important to prioritize responsible and moderate consumption of both substances to minimize negative emotional effects and promote overall well-being.

Social Effects

The social effects of being drunk and being high can differ significantly. These effects can impact behavior, interactions with others, and overall social experiences. In this section, we will explore the social behavior when drunk and when high, highlighting the distinctions between the two.

Social Behavior When Drunk

When under the influence of alcohol, individuals may experience changes in their social behavior. Alcohol can affect inhibitions and decision-making abilities, leading to altered social interactions. Some common social effects of being drunk include:

Increased talkativeness and extroversion
Decreased inhibitions and self-control
Impaired judgment and decision-making
Reduced coordination and motor skills

These effects can result in various behaviors such as loud and boisterous talking, excessive laughter, increased risk-taking, and lowered social boundaries. It's important to note that alcohol affects individuals differently, and not everyone will exhibit the same social behaviors when drunk.

Social Behavior When High

In contrast, the social behavior when high on cannabis can differ from that of being drunk. Cannabis can induce a range of effects, both physical and mental, that can influence social interactions. Some common social effects of being high include:

Altered perception of time and space
Increased relaxation and introspection
Enhanced sensory experiences
Heightened creativity and imagination

When individuals are high, they may exhibit behaviors such as deep conversations, introspective thoughts, increased laughter, and a more laid-back approach to social interactions. Cannabis can also foster a sense of community and connectedness among users, leading to shared experiences and camaraderie.

While alcohol and cannabis can have distinct social effects, it's important to remember that individual experiences may vary. Factors such as dosage, tolerance, personal characteristics, and the social environment can all influence the social behavior exhibited when under the influence.

Understanding the social effects of being drunk and being high can help individuals make informed choices about their behaviors and interactions in social settings. It's crucial to always prioritize safety, respect the boundaries of others, and adhere to legal regulations surrounding alcohol and cannabis consumption.

Legal Implications

When comparing the effects of being drunk and being high, it's important to consider the legal implications associated with alcohol and marijuana use. Both substances have specific laws and regulations governing their usage, particularly when it comes to driving under the influence (DUI) and marijuana legalization.

DUI Laws and Alcohol

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense in many jurisdictions. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for operating a motor vehicle varies by country and state. In the United States, for example, the legal BAC limit is typically 0.08%. However, it's important to note that even lower levels of alcohol consumption can impair driving abilities.

Legal BAC Limits

Country/State	Legal BAC Limit
United States	0.08%
United Kingdom	0.08%
Australia	0.05%
Canada	0.08%

Penalties for DUI offenses can range from fines and license suspension to probation and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions. It's crucial to refrain from driving if you have consumed alcohol, as impaired driving poses significant risks to yourself and others on the road.

Marijuana Legalization and Usage

The legalization of marijuana varies across different countries and states. Some jurisdictions have legalized marijuana for medical use, recreational use, or both. However, it's important to understand the specific laws and regulations governing marijuana usage in your location.

In areas where marijuana is legalized, there are typically restrictions on age, possession limits, and consumption locations. It's important to adhere to these regulations to avoid legal consequences. In jurisdictions where marijuana is still illegal, possession, distribution, and use can result in criminal charges.

Marijuana Legalization Status

Country/State	Marijuana Legalization Status
Canada	Legal for recreational and medical use
Uruguay	Legal for recreational and medical use
Netherlands	Decriminalized for personal use
California (USA)	Legal for recreational and medical use

It's essential to stay informed about the laws and regulations surrounding marijuana to ensure compliance and avoid any legal issues.

Understanding the legal implications of alcohol and marijuana use is crucial for responsible consumption. It's important to adhere to DUI laws and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Additionally, staying up to date on marijuana legalization status and following the regulations in your jurisdiction will help you navigate the legal landscape surrounding its usage.