Hello from all of us at Tribeca AYAM! In this celebration-filled month, we’re shining a spotlight on a behavior that is easily missed but surprisingly common, especially during holiday festivities: binge drinking. Binge drinking is just like anything else you can binge on, like food or Netflix, and as you might suspect, it’s not the healthiest choice and comes with serious consequences.
What is Binge Drinking?
Binge drinking is defined as consuming a large quantity of alcohol in a short period, typically five or more drinks for men and four or more drinks for women within two hours. There are many significant risks associated with this behavior.
An Increasing Trend
Young adults under 35 are more likely to binge drink than other age groups, but recent research highlights a concerning rise in binge drinking among adolescents aged 12-17. This is particularly alarming because adolescent brains are still in development, rendering them more vulnerable to the detrimental effects of alcohol. Reasons young people may binge drink include wanting to fit in, wanting to relieve stress or thinking it will make them “feel good,” wanting to feel older/more mature, and out of curiosity for what it feels like to be intoxicated.
High-Risk Behaviors
Binge drinking also often leads to high-risk behaviors such as driving under the influence. This not only endangers the individual but also poses a severe risk to the public. In addition to DUI, binge drinking can result in poor decision-making, which may lead to accidents, fights, and risky sexual behavior.
Long-Term Dangers
Binge drinking isn’t just dangerous when you’re doing it—there are many long-term health risks associated with even occasional binges. These risks include memory issues, decreased brain volume, and an increased likelihood of developing an alcohol use disorder in the future. Physical effects include dehydration, liver damage, heart disease, and stroke.
What Can You Do?
Parental Guidance: Open communication about the risks of binge drinking and modeling appropriate behaviors is crucial, even early on when you don’t think children are watching.
Make a Plan: If you anticipate drinking, plan on having food with your drinks and alternating alcohol with non-alcoholic beverages. Water is best! Also plan to drink with people you trust, and know how you’ll be getting home safely.
Medical Consultation: If you’re concerned that you are engaging in binge drinking, consult healthcare professionals for guidance and treatment.
We at Tribeca AYAM are dedicated to your well-being. If you worry binge drinking or any other health concern is affecting you, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us.
Thank you for being a part of our Tribeca AYAM community. Take care, and see you in the new year!