Adults only (18+)

Is Alcohol Worse Than Weed?

The question of whether alcohol is worse than cannabis has been debated for decades. In the UK, alcohol is legal and widely consumed, while cannabis remains a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This legal difference often influences public perception, but legality does not always reflect relative harm. Both alcohol and cannabis can affect mental and physical health in different ways, and both carry risks when misused. Comparing the two requires looking at their short-term and long-term effects, how they impact behaviour and society, and what the science tells us about their safety.

Understanding the Immediate Effects

Alcohol is a depressant that slows down the central nervous system. It affects judgement, coordination and decision-making. In small amounts, it can make people feel relaxed and sociable, but larger quantities often lead to slurred speech, confusion and aggression. Cannabis, on the other hand, affects the brain’s cannabinoid receptors and typically causes a sense of calm, altered perception and sometimes euphoria. However, it can also lead to anxiety, paranoia or impaired concentration, particularly at high doses or in people not used to it.

Risks of Overuse and Long-Term Impact

Chronic alcohol use is known to cause serious health problems including liver disease, high blood pressure, heart problems and various types of cancer. It is also associated with dependency, withdrawal symptoms and a high number of hospital admissions in the UK each year. Long-term cannabis use can impact memory, motivation and mental health, especially in younger users. Some studies have linked regular cannabis use with an increased risk of psychosis, although this appears to depend on personal vulnerability and patterns of use.

Addiction and Dependence

Alcohol has a well-documented potential for addiction. Physical dependence can develop after long-term use, and withdrawal symptoms may include tremors, sweating and seizures. Cannabis can also be habit-forming, especially when used daily, but it is less likely to cause physical withdrawal. People who become dependent on cannabis may experience anxiety, irritability or difficulty sleeping when they stop. While both substances can lead to psychological reliance, alcohol carries a higher risk of severe physical dependence.

Social and Behavioural Consequences

Alcohol is more strongly linked with aggression, domestic violence and antisocial behaviour. It is a major contributor to crime and accidents, especially on the roads. Cannabis is less commonly associated with violence, but it can still impair driving and reaction times. From a public safety perspective, alcohol tends to have a more significant impact on others, while cannabis-related harm is more individual. However, cannabis use may still affect work performance, academic achievement and motivation, especially in frequent users.

Mortality and Physical Harm

Alcohol-related deaths are well documented in the UK. Liver failure, alcohol poisoning and long-term organ damage contribute to thousands of fatalities each year. Cannabis, while not risk-free, has not been directly linked to fatal overdoses in the same way. That said, cannabis can still contribute to accidents or mental health crises in vulnerable individuals. In terms of physical harm and fatal outcomes, alcohol has a far higher burden on health services and public health than cannabis.

Legal Status and Public Perception

Alcohol is legal for adults over 18 and is widely available. Cannabis remains a Class B drug, with possession punishable by fines or arrest. Some people argue that this legal divide does not reflect the relative harms of each substance. Research has shown that alcohol ranks high on measures of both individual and societal harm, while cannabis often ranks lower. However, legality also considers social norms, economic factors and historical context, which continue to influence how each is regulated and viewed by the public.

Conclusion

While both alcohol and cannabis can be harmful when misused, alcohol tends to carry greater risks in terms of physical health, addiction and societal impact. Cannabis has its own dangers, particularly for mental health, but it is generally considered less toxic to the body and less likely to result in fatal outcomes. The debate over which is worse depends on how you define harm. From a public health perspective, alcohol currently places a greater strain on individuals and society. However, both substances require careful and responsible use, and neither is without consequence.