Binge Drinking

Binge drinking can be defined as periodic bouts of excessive and uncontrollable drinking. Even though binge drinking may not occur every day -- in fact, many binge drinkers can go weeks, months and, occasionally, years between drinking liquor -- binge drinking can still be a form of alcoholism.

During their periods of sobriety, binge drinkers may not even think about alcohol. Those who engage in binge drinking are able to control their drinking, often having only a drink or two a week or month. Sometimes, binge drinkers can even go years without drinking alcohol. Seemingly without effort, some binge drinkers are able to stay completely sober.

Then, for some reason -- or for no reason at all -- binge drinkers begin drinking again. They neglect everything in their lives, family, friends, work and social responsibilities, to consume large amounts of alcohol. The spree may last only one night, or it may continue for days or weeks. When the drinking binge is over, the drinker is usually sick and full of remorse, determined never to let it happen again. Unfortunately, it does happen again. And again and again.

Binge drinking or any type of periodic drinking can be confusing, not only to the drinker's family and friends, but also to the drinker, who cannot understand why they have so little interest in alcohol between binges -- or so little control over it once the drinking starts. Oftentimes, binge drinkers might wonder if they are alcoholics, but aren't certain because they have so little problems avoiding alcohol between binges.

Binge drinkers are not necessarily alcoholics. However, if the binge drinking becomes more frequent and the period between binges becomes shorter, it might be time to assess whether or not you are an alcoholic. If you think you might have a problem with binge drinking, seeking treatment is the next step toward healing.

If you think your binge drinking might be a problem for you or someone you love, please give Treatment Referral a call today to learn more about your treatment options.