[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”ARE YOU A BINGE DRINKER?” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Binge drinking is a term used to describe the act of drinking alcoholic beverages for the primary purpose of becoming intoxicated over a short period of time, typically bringing the person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08 grams percent or above. This usually occurs when men drink 5 or more drinks, and when women consume 4 or more drinks, in a short period of time – 2 hours for example.
WHY IS BINGE DRINKING SO DANGEROUS?
Drinking alcohol quickly may not seem very dangerous, but raising the blood alcohol concentration rapidly can bring about intoxication very quickly. With intoxication comes a big risk for physical injury due to accidents at home or out in public.
In extreme cases, breathing and heart function can cease, or choking on vomit can occur and death is a real possibility.
Mental health issues can arise from binge drinking, as the long term consequences can affect memory and other areas of the brain. This form of drinking often leads to extreme personality changes, such as aggressive and even violent behaviour.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A BINNGE DRINKER?
You don’t have to be a daily drinker to be a binge drinker. Those who binge drink tend to drink very quickly over a short period of time, often with the intention of getting drunk. Often, once an alcohol binge begins, the drinker finds it difficult to stop drinking.
WHO CAN I GET HELP
If you are worried about your consumption of alcohol, contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible. There are also alcohol specific support groups and counsellors. There is help available – don’t hesitate to reach for it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]