I discovered my abilities as a psychic and a medium in childhood (a terrifying experience during those early years with no support or information). In my experience, a little alcohol can relax us enough that we get out of our heads and into our feelings and ability to perceive or tune into the energies around us.

However, anything more than a little alcohol and it can get messy. Our own feelings and issues can come into play. It's hard to discern what's from Spirits and what's from spirits... (not usually much of the former but a lot of the latter)