The key is to do what works for you. If you would rather abstain, thats fine, and if you enjoy alcohol in moderation, that's perfectly fine as well.
I think alcohol does have some positive effects. First of all, a slight buzz is certainly pleasurable, a couple drinks can really help you relax and become a more sociable person. Many of the most interesting conversations I've had have come over drinks.
Can these same benefits be obtained without alcohol? Of course, it just takes a bit more effort and the desire to go against common social norms. If you need to stay away from places people drink because you want to abstain, it will likely have a negative effect on your social life.
The only real problems with alcohol are caused by a lack of moderation or poor judgment. Using it properly is something that is hard to master because you're always tempted to go a bit further.
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