Alcohol abuse and addiction are common issues affecting millions of American adults every year. Binge drinking is among the most common ways that some people can abuse alcoholic beverages. Unfortunately, binge drinking brings about many potentially serious health risks that could mean your child is in need of a teen addiction treatment center. The following information discusses the binge drinking definition and some of the possible effects that can come about from this practice.
What is the Definition of Binge Drinking?
In the discussion of dangerous patterns of alcohol consumption, it is important to establish the proper binge drinking definition. Binge drinking is described as consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time. This consumption results in an increased blood alcohol content that is generally 0.08 or above. The blood alcohol content is raised because the individual has consumed more alcohol than their liver can filter.
What are the Possible Effects of Binge Drinking?
In the process of establishing the binge drinking definition, it is important to realize that the amount of alcohol consumed to reach dangerous levels will vary from person to person. It will depend in part on the person’s weight and overall size. This destructive pattern of drinking can bring about the following negative effects:
- Unintentional injuries
- Permanent liver damage
- Loss of proper brain functioning
- Nerve damage
- Alcohol poisoning resulting in loss of consciousness or death
These are just a few of the possible long-term effects associated with binge drinking. These issues can occur after one episode of binge drinking or they can happen over a period of time in association with continued alcohol abuse.
Are Binge Drinkers Addicted to Alcohol?
Binge drinkers are not necessarily addicted to alcohol, nor do they have to display patterns of substance abuse behaviors in order to have a problem that warrants treatment. However, the longer a person practices this dangerous behavior, the more likely they are to become physically dependent on alcohol and need teen alcohol rehabilitation.
Why is Seeking Professional Treatment Vital?
Most people who get caught up in destructive patterns of behavior such as binge drinking have great difficulty breaking free from these behaviors on their own. This is especially true if they become addicted to the substance. Alcohol recovery programs exist to help such individuals break the cycle of addictive behaviors so that they can experience a well-balanced life once again.
If your teen is struggling with alcoholism and binge drinking, then it’s time to find them help. A luxury rehab center can provide the comforts of home away from home, so you can rest easy knowing your child is taken care of. For example, a rehab center that specializes in substance abuse treatment for teens could be the perfect rehab for your son or daughter. Don’t hesitate and find help today.
