Binge Drinking Vs. Alcoholism | Better Addiction Care

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Since prohibition saw its end in the early 1930s, drinking has been a large part of American society. Adults over the age of 21 can walk into a bar, liquor store, or most restaurants and buy an alcoholic beverage. This accessibility can account for the high numbers of alcohol-related illnesses, complications, and deaths seen across the country. That being said, not every alcohol use disorder is the same. We are examining the relationship between binge drinking vs. alcoholism and the dangers each scenario can cause.

Is Binge Drinking Alcoholism?

It can come as a surprise to some to learn that these phrases are not interchangeable. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines binge drinking as the consumption of an amount that raises the drinker’s blood alcohol level to at least .08, if not higher. In 2 hours, this is most commonly from drinking four beverages for a woman or five for a man.1 Alcoholism is a chronic condition, one which is hallmarked by an inability to control drinking, often due to an increased tolerance that builds up over time.

A person who binges drinks doesn’t necessarily have alcoholism, and a person with alcoholism may not always binge drink. For example, a habitual binge drinker may be able to ingest unhealthy amounts on weekends yet can easily get through the rest of the week sober.

Why Do People Binge Drink?

It will truly depend on the individual and their unique set of circumstances. Some reasons that people do this can include:

Social pressure
Fear of missing out
Trying to relieve stress
Distraction
Doing it alone to hide habits from loved ones

No matter the reason, binge drinking is a dangerous practice that can result in lifelong consequences. Alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening, and permanent damage to the brain can influence the individual’s ability to practice self-control. Additionally, through this habit, a physical dependency on alcohol may be more likely to develop. Once it does, it can become increasingly difficult to break away from. The damaging effects of binge drinking should serve as a sign of the danger this habit presents.

Is Alcoholism a Disease?

Officially, the answer is yes. The American Medical Association classified it as a disease back in 1956, with addiction following suit in 1987. Being that it is a chronic condition, sufferers will find themselves wanting to continue drinking despite the negative consequences. It can destroy careers, harm relationships, and lead to a slew of other health complications, including:

Diabetes
Liver Disease
Heart Disease
Neurological Disorders
Cancer

If you or someone you care about is struggling with this disease, recovery is possible with the right kind of treatment.

Resources at Better Addiction Care

Binge drink vs. alcohol is a common point of confusion for those unaware of the dangers each presents. We are equipped with a wide array of useful resources, effective in treating patients that are struggling with either scenario. If a patient needs to detox in a safe and medically supervised environment, participate in inpatient rehab, or maintain sobriety through alcoholics anonymous, Better Addiction Care has the resources to get the job done.

Speak to a specialist at Better Addiction Care by calling 800-429-7690, and start your recovery journey today!

Sources

NIAAA – Drinking Levels Defined