College Binge Drinking: Why It’s Dangerous & How to Avoid It
When people hear the word college, a variety of images may come to mind, depending on the person’s particular experience. Some immediately associate college life with higher learning and academic rigor, but others think first of a big party scene and the alcohol consumption that sometimes goes along with it. Unfortunately, binge drinking is prevalent at many schools, and young people need to understand why it’s dangerous and how they can avoid it.
How common is college binge drinking?
Binge drinking refers to the consumption of a lot of alcohol in a short amount of time. Typically, that means four or more drinks for women and five or more for men within a two-hour time frame.
According to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 49% of full-time college students (ages 18-22) drank alcohol, and 28.9% admitted to binge drinking. While that number may not seem high, the sad reality is that at least one out of every four college students is drinking dangerous amounts of alcohol, and many do so on a regular basis.
Why does college binge drinking seem normal?
Watch any movie about college life or check out social media and you’re bound to see images that glamorize underage alcohol consumption and promote the stereotype that heavy drinking is essential for anyone who wants a fun college experience. Here are some other reasons college students might binge drink:
- To Fit In: That’s right, peer pressure doesn’t end with high school. Some students feel pressure to drink alcohol so they’ll be accepted by certain groups or new friends.
- To Handle Stress: College life isn’t easy for everyone. Students may struggle with academic pressure, financial worries, homesickness, and more. Some mistakenly believe alcohol will help them cope.
- To Prove They’re Adults: For many, college offers a first taste of independence, and they’re anxious to prove they can handle adult responsibilities and privileges — even if they aren’t old enough to drink alcohol legally.
Where does binge drinking tend to happen?
Although binge drinking can happen anywhere, there are settings where it’s more likely to occur.
- Parties: House parties, fraternity socials, bonfires, and other off-campus gatherings are settings where binge drinking is often encouraged.
- Tailgating: Tailgating before a sporting contest can often involve “pregaming,” which means drinking heavily before heading into the event.
- Spring Break: Some towns have cracked down on Spring Break activities because the level of student drunkenness during this notorious “party week” was creating too many dangerous situations.
What are the side effects of binge drinking when you’re underage?
Binge drinking is harmful for everyone, but it can be especially dangerous for underage students. Here are some of the risks:
- Alcohol Poisoning: This life-threatening condition occurs when the body has difficulty processing the amount of alcohol consumed. Symptoms include disorientation, vomiting, blackouts, and (in extreme cases) coma.
- Increased Chances of Injury: Heavy alcohol use impairs judgment and coordination, potentially causing falls, accidents, and injuries. Impaired judgment may also lead to risky behaviors like unwanted sexual activity, starting fights, trying stupid stunts, or impaired driving.
- Academic Problems: Hangovers may cause students to miss classes or have difficulty studying and completing assignments. This can cause a drop in grades and threaten academic success.
- Legal Trouble: Binge drinking is not recommended for anyone, but it’s also worth remembering that it’s illegal to consume any amount of alcohol if you’re under 21. Underage drinking charges may include fines, loss of driver’s license, community service, or even jail time. Plus, depending on your college’s alcohol policies, you could face suspension or expulsion from school.
- Mental Health Issues: Excessive drinking can cause anxiety or depression and may lead to alcohol dependence.
How can students avoid binge drinking?
Don’t believe the stereotype that alcohol is an inescapable part of the college experience. You can explore your interests, meet new friends, and make wonderful memories without ever drinking a drop. Here’s how:
- Find Your Tribe: Pursue your interests or hobbies by joining a club, intramural team, or volunteer organization. There are lots of opportunities to have alcohol-free and positive experiences!
- Plan Sober Outings: Invite like-minded friends to join you at a coffee shop, movie, comedy show, or concert. Organize a trip to the local driving range or museum, a hike, a pick-up basketball game, or a picnic.
- Communicate Clearly: If you have friends who drink alcohol, let them know politely but firmly that you don’t need alcohol to have a good time. Good friends will respect your choices.
- Be the Designated Driver: Your friends will appreciate a safe ride home and you’ll have a great reason not to drink alcohol.
Enjoy Your Alcohol-Free College Experience
Although college binge drinking is a significant issue on some campuses, it doesn’t have to be one for you! If you’re looking for more tips to avoid teen alcohol misuse, visit Talk it Out NC. While you’re there, Take the Pledge to help prevent underage drinking.
