HALIFAX, N.S. — Academic stress is on the rise during this condensed semester, leading students to turn to their preferred method of stress relief: substances. While the obvious benefits of downing two shots before looking at yourself in the mirror are well-known, did you know there are benefits to having a drink or two while studying? Here at the Mackerel, we’ve done the research so you can spend more time going to the NSLC this semester.
SUB: Benefit 1: GABA activation
Studying, especially during midterm or exam season, can be stressful. A 2006 study on alcohol’s effects on stress found that low doses of alcohol can potentiate extrasynaptic GABAA receptor sub-types in the brain, which reduces neuron excitability. This leads to a perceived calming effect that reduces stress (Wallner, Hanchar, & Olsen, 2006). At the very least, that’s how ChatGPT summarized the findings. The actual conclusion section had a lot of confusing acronyms that made me question my ability to read.
SUB: Benefit 2: Creativity on tap
A 2017 study — that has a title so good we just stole it for this subheading — found a link between a blood alcohol concentration of 0.03 per cent or higher and enhanced creative cognitive function (Benedek et al., 128). For reference, a BAC of 0.03 per cent is achieved by either having one drink, if your body weight is between 140 and 180 pounds (Gillette, 2025), or simply cracking the can and inhaling the vapours — if you’re like my buddy Saul, who can’t drink for shit and has no bitches (Mackerel, 2025). The increase in creativity could generate new ways of thinking and potentially lead to great things, such as the creation of new mathematical proofs and whatever the arts do.
SUB: Benefit 3: Reward psychology
It’s always important to motivate yourself through the studying process with material things because — contrary to what your professor said during their rant about AI usage — learning is not its own reward. Everything must be gamified in a way to keep your post-TikTok brain engaged and wanting more. Let alcohol be this motivator. Finish a chapter? That’s a sip. Complete a question? That’s a sip. Realize that the hours you’ve spent working towards your degree will not lead to your future prosperity, making the entire post-secondary education system a Sisyphean task where the boulder also takes your money? Buddy … that deserves a whole case.
SUB: Benefit 4: Mysterious genius aura/time travel
No one will understand your ways when you bring your case of Keith’s to the Killam Library — and this will result in you being seen as a deeply mysterious and intriguing person with a storied past and future. Your notes will look like Einstein wrote them, which will make up for the moment when you throw up on them. People will see you as a tortured genius whose hubris requires dampening to be present in this mortal realm. As your perception of reality slows under inebriation, you will spend more time studying in your mind than in reality. Suddenly, you’ll find yourself with hours worth of material crammed into your brain compared to your sober compatriots, which will make up for the three-hour nap you take in their presence afterwards.
Next time you’re struggling with an assignment, studying for an exam or the loss of a semester, remember that beer is your best friend. Anyway, here’s a fun disclaimer!
The content presented in this article is intended for informational purposes only. The Mackerel does not promote, encourage or endorse the consumption, misuse or abuse of alcohol under any circumstances. Any mention of alcohol within this article is not to be interpreted as advice or encouragement to consume alcohol. The Mackerel expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability for any harm, injury, loss or damages (whether physical, psychological, legal or financial) that may result from alcohol consumption or abuse that is in any way connected to the content of this article. This includes, but is not limited to: health issues, addiction, impaired judgment, legal consequences, accidents or interpersonal conflicts. All individuals are responsible for their own decisions and actions. By reading this article, you acknowledge that any choice to consume alcohol is made at your own discretion and risk. The Mackerel does not accept any liability for the outcomes of such decisions, whether direct or indirect. If you or someone you know is experiencing problems related to alcohol use, we strongly urge you to seek assistance from licensed medical professionals, addiction specialists or support organizations. Alcohol should only be consumed legally, responsibly and in accordance with applicable laws and health guidelines. The Mackerel assumes no responsibility for any actions taken by readers as a result of engaging with this material.
Have fun kids!
Works Cited
Wallner, M., Hanchar, H. J., & Olsen, R. W. (2006). Low dose acute alcohol effects on GABAA_AA receptor subtypes. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 112(2), 513-528. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2006.05.004
Benedek, Mathias, et al. “Creativity on Tap? Effects of Alcohol Intoxication on Creative Cognition.” Consciousness and Cognition, vol. 56, Nov. 2017, pp. 128-134. PMC, PMC5700800.
Gillette, Hope. “Blood Alcohol Level Chart and Easy Guide.” Healthline, May 14, 2025. Accessed October 19, 2025. https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol/blood-alcohol-level-chart
The Mackerel. (2025). Case study: The one-drink blackout of Saul (virgin). Unpublished anecdotal report. Personal collection of the Mackerel.
By Jake Waldner