The United States has some of the highest rates of alcohol consumption and abuse. Since alcohol is legal and easily accessible, it brings plenty of difficulties for those struggling with substance abuse. Alcohol relapse continues to be a trend, especially now during COVID-19, where the stresses and uncertainties of the pandemic are filling people with feelings of anxiety.
In 2010, the prevalence of binge drinking and alcohol abuse cost the US government $249 billion due to its overall effects. The issue has also created nationwide health problems as well as a strain on the legal system, due to alcohol-related criminal activities such as DUI. Many of those who relapse on alcohol and continue to binge on the substance end up with many complications, which can only be solved by addiction recovery programs.
What Turns Drinking into Binge Drinking?
Drinking moderately or getting intoxicated once in a while is normal for the average adult. However, binge drinking that results in alcohol abuse has different parameters of use. Generally, drinking one to two drinks in a day, depending on a person’s sex, constitutes moderate drinking limits. One drink typically equates to an ounce and a half of hard liquor, five ounces of wine, or a twelve-ounce bottle of beer.
These are just general parameters, but what sets a moderate drinker apart from a binge drinker depends on a few factors. It depends on how often a person drinks, how long they’ve been drinking for, or the person’s overall health at the time. Knowing how young the person was before they started drinking and their genetic background and environment can reveal more about how they developed binge drinking.
Is Alcohol Abuse a Form of Alcoholism?
While alcoholism is a severe form caused by alcohol abuse, they are not the same concept. Every person has various experiences and reactions to the substance. It might even be said that alcoholism results from binge drinking issues that are not resolved.
Many people who binge drink might be able to control themselves and bounce back from the hangover and get back to their work schedule for the coming week. However, increased alcohol abuse can cause higher tolerances and create more considerable risks for alcoholism. While these are both severe conditions, it is best to watch out for binges early on to prevent the prevalence of alcoholism.
Signs of Alcohol Abuse
Those who suffer from alcohol use disorder (AUD) might require more drinks to achieve the level of intoxication they want to feel and might drink for more extended periods. Many of those transitioning into full-blown alcoholism can experience more blackouts and increased memory loss than in the past. Externally, people might voice concerns about a person’s drinking, whether it is a family member, a significant other, their children, or those at work. These are telltale signs of AUD, and this is when to begin seeking addiction recovery services and other helpful organizations.
Binge Drinking’s Issues
Drinking in moderation is seen as good for a person’s health in some instances. Some experts say a glass of wine a day is good for the heart, with other benefits from indulging sparingly. However, binge drinking can damage internal organs, especially the liver and the kidneys, since alcohol can be toxic in large doses. Other diseases include stomach bleeding, anemia, heart diseases, and even depression or other mental illnesses.
Seek Help from Addiction Recovery Specialists
Seeking help to find addiction recovery during bouts of binge drinking is a must to prevent the full-blown effects of alcoholism. Alcohol abuse is one of our country’s most significant issues, and this is evident, especially during the pandemic, with alcohol sales skyrocketing. Working with professionals can help get anyone’s lives back on track as long as they are willing to take the first step.
Getting help for addiction does not have to be difficult. With addiction recovery services that assist various people existing today, you’re no longer alone. If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, consider visiting American Treatment Network in Havertown, PA, for a complete range of assistance tools and immediate access to care. Contact us to know more about how we can help you find recovery.
