No brainer: Alcohol's harmful impact on brain health — from cradle to grave

Two new reports outline the impacts of both alcohol and mental health across Ireland. Missing from the discussion is the clear links between alcohol and brain health at all ages, from very early days in the womb right up to old age, writes Catherine Conlon

The relationship between alcohol consumption and depression is well established. Drinking increases depressive moods and people often turn to alcohol to temporarily relieve depression or numb their feelings.

Alcohol-related liver disease has increased across the majority of counties over the last five years, according to a new report from the Health Research Board.

Hospital data shows the greatest number of cases were in Dublin, Cork and Galway, with a 16% rise in hospitalisations in Cork between 2018 and 2022.