Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances in the United States. Due to its legality, it’s easy to access for people of all age groups and socioeconomic classes. However, this ease of access is also what makes the culture surrounding drinking so prevalent. From movies to social pressures, binge drinking statistics reveal just how common and dangerous this practice is.
Defining Binge Drinking
Binge drinking is the consumption of copious amounts of alcohol in a short period of time. For adults, this means consuming four or more drinks in a two-hour window. Of course, there is no set amount that defines a binge. Instead, it depends on the person’s age, sex, weight, tolerance, and a number of other factors. Regardless, consuming enough alcohol to become heavily intoxicated is the result of binge drinking.
Binge drinking leads to many adverse side effects. If a person consumes more alcohol than their body can reasonably handle, it may lead to alcohol poisoning. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Amnesia
- Lack of coordination
- Slurred speech
- Flushing
- Loss of consciousness
Although these symptoms can be life-threatening, binge drinking statistics in Oregon reveal that the practice is common among teens and young adults. This is likely due to its cultural popularity and peer pressure.
Understanding Binge Drinking Statistics Oregon Struggles With
Binge drinking statistics reveal that the over-consumption of alcohol is common among college students. In the United States, alcohol is legal to anyone over the age of 21. Since this is an age many people reach during their college years, it’s common for alcohol experimentation to begin during this time. Additionally, college culture encourages binge drinking at parties, bars, and other social events. Even if a person has no desire to imbibe, they may end up being peer pressured into it.
Unfortunately, long-term alcohol consumption can lead to serious health effects. If a person binge drinks regularly, they may suffer from health consequences that include:
- Cirrhosis
- Liver damage
- Brain damage
- Cancer
- Pancreatitis
Furthermore, the more alcohol a person consumes, the higher their tolerance becomes. This can eventually lead to dependence and addiction. Only an alcohol addiction rehab center can identify the signs of an alcohol use disorder and determine a plan for recovery.
Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment at Crestview Recovery
You do not have to become part of binge drinking statistics. If you’re struggling with alcohol abuse and addiction, help is available. Crestview Recovery is an addiction treatment center in Portland, Oregon that is dedicated to the long-term health and happiness of its clients. We offer several addiction treatment programs to help clients struggling with addiction, including:
- Women’s alcohol rehab center
- Addiction therapy services
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
To learn more about Crestview Recovery and how we can help guide you to a life of healing, call us today at 866.262.0531.
