That includes emotional pain, the relief of which, for many of us, is worth even more. Now, it's just up to you to decide if it's worth the hangover.
Munchies reports that recent research from the Journal of Pain suggests that alcohol could be as effective managing your pain as actual medication! The study compared the blood alcohol content of 18 participants as it compares to their pain levels. Those with a 0.08 BAC had a much higher pain threshold than those who had a lower BAC.
The general consensus is that 0.08 BAC is equal to about three to four drinks, which means having three to four drinks is likely to increase your pain tolerance dramatically.
These findings don't, however, mean that we should be remedying all sorts of pain with alcohol, since the amount needed to dull the effects of pain is enough to cause harm to the rest of our bodies.
It's OK (at least, I think it's OK) to savor the effects from time to time. It never hurts to pay attention to what your body is telling you. Sometimes it's telling you it wants another glass of wine. Just proceed with caution, keeping in mind that another glass might not be the best thing for the rest of your organs. You know that thing they say, enjoy responsibly.
Also, researchers say, "Strongest analgesia occurs for alcohol levels exceeding World Health Organization guidelines for low-risk drinking and suggests raising awareness of alternative, less harmful pain interventions to vulnerable patients may be beneficial." This further explains, they concluded, why alcohol misuse is seen in higher quantities among those in "persistent pain."
Take this knowledge and do what you will with it. Maybe it just makes you feel better to know for certain what you already knew from experience. Going through a breakup? Grab that pint of Ben & Jerry's that you were going for anyway, and grab a bottle of wine while you're at it. Don't forget the chick flick, or revenge film. Whatever's your style.