**Ethanol consumption induces depression.**

  *Ethanol enhances the inhibitory action of GABA in the brain, mainly at the GABA_A receptor.

    *GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the CNS.----->GABA_A receptors are ligand-gated chloride (Cl⁻) channels------>Ethanol acts as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA_A receptor (does not replace GABA).----->In presence of ethanol, GABA binding increases opening frequency of Cl⁻ channels.----->Increased Cl⁻ influx → hyperpolarization of neuronal membrane.------>Hyperpolarization reduces neuronal excitability and firing.

  *Result → CNS depression.