Alcohol consumption is a common social activity, but it can also have serious consequences when it’s misused. Two terms often mentioned in discussions about alcohol misuse are “binge drinking” and “alcoholism.” While they may seem similar, they represent different patterns of drinking and different levels of alcohol consumption. Understanding the distinction between binge drinking and true alcoholism is crucial for recognizing and addressing the risks associated with each.
What is Binge Drinking?
Binge drinking is defined as consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time, leading to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 grams percent or above. For men, this typically means consuming five or more drinks in about two hours; for women, it means consuming four or more drinks in about two hours.
Binge drinking is most likely to happen in social situations, such as at bars and college parties. It’s characterized by heavy episodic drinking rather than regular alcohol consumption. People who binge drink may not have a dependence on alcohol, meaning they do not have alcoholism or alcohol use disorder (AUD), but they can engage in risky behaviors due to their drinking.
Furthermore, binge drinking carries a lot of risks, including accidents, injuries and alcohol poisoning, as well as risky behaviors like unprotected sex or driving while intoxicated. Long-term risks of binge drinking include liver disease, heart problems and an increased likelihood of developing alcohol dependence.
What is Alcoholism?
Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, is a chronic disease characterized by the inability to control drinking despite adverse consequences. It involves a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol and it often requires alcohol use disorder treatment to get better.
Unlike binge drinking, alcoholism is marked by regular and compulsive alcohol consumption. Individuals may drink alone, experience cravings and have a high tolerance for alcohol. They may also experience symptoms when they’re not drinking, such as irritability, agitation, headaches and shaking. It’s these symptoms that often lead them back to alcohol.
There are many long-term risks to having alcohol use disorder, including liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, neurological damage and cardiovascular disease. AUD also impacts mental health, leading to depression, anxiety and other psychological disorders. Alcoholism also negatively impacts relationships with friends and family and often leads to decreased job performance.
Key Differences Between Binge Drinking and Alcohol Use Disorder
The main difference between binge drinking and alcoholism is the frequency and pattern of drinking. Binge drinking occurs in episodes, typically less frequently but involving large amounts of alcohol at once. Alcoholism involves a pattern of drinking, often daily, with an inability to stop.
Individuals who binge drink do not necessarily have an alcohol use disorder, as they may not be dependent on the substance. For instance, a college student who binge drinks at parties on the weekends may not drink during the week. They are not physically or psychologically dependent on the substance to function. However, binge drinking does put them at risk for developing AUD. If they continue drinking like this, they may learn to like it and turn to alcohol to have fun or combat stress. This can then lead to alcoholism where they are unable to quit or cut back.
The long-term effects from binge drinking and alcoholism are also a bit different. Binge drinking is more likely to put people in immediate harm’s way, such as accidents and alcohol poisoning. Alcohol use disorder can lead to chronic health issues like liver damage, heart disease, mental health disorders and significant impairment in daily functioning.
Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder in Easton, PA
Since binge drinking is not a true disorder, it doesn’t require treatment. However, talking to someone about their alcohol use and educating them on the short- and long-term risks, including the potential for alcoholism, may be needed. While binge drinking is often associated with the college lifestyle, in reality, many people engage in this behavior when they’re out in social situations. Therefore, understanding the risks is important.
Medically Supervised Detox
Alcohol use disorder does require treatment. The first step is usually medically supervised detox, which is a process that involves clearing alcohol from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms. The symptoms from alcohol detox can be severe and even life-threatening, which is why medical support is essential. For instance, delirium tremens can occur, which is a serious form of withdrawal that involves shaking, confusion and hallucinations.
Medications
Aside from the medications used during the detox process—benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, antidepressants—there are also medications approved by the FDA to treat alcohol use disorder. Disulfiram creates an adverse reaction when alcohol is consumed, deterring drinking. Naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects of alcohol, reducing the desire to drink. Acamprosate helps stabilize brain chemistry that is disrupted by alcohol dependence, reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These medications may be used long-term.
Behavioral Therapies
Behavioral therapies are also effective, as they address the psychological aspects of alcohol use disorder. Some of the best approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, contingency management and 12-step facilitation therapy. People who are in recovery from AUD also benefit from counseling and support groups. In these settings, they can work on personal issues related to alcohol use and share their experiences with others.
Holistic and Alternative Therapies
Holistic and alternative therapies also support a healthy recovery, as they teach individuals how to live a happy and full life without alcohol. Many people struggle to find healthy activities to fill their time in recovery, which is why our treatment team encourages healthy activities from the start. Whether it’s yoga for exercise and stress relief, meditation to clear the mind or creative therapies to express deep emotions, these activities can be incredibly powerful in supporting an alcohol-free lifestyle.
Start Your Recovery from Alcohol Use Today
If you are ready to start your recovery from alcohol use, contact Recovery Cove today at 484-549-COVE. We offer a well-rounded program that supports our clients in every way possible, from teaching new skills and ways of coping to addressing issues like trauma or abuse. We are here for you when you need us!
