Alcohol is the most widely used recreational drug in Australia. Because of its popularity, people don't tend to think of it as a drug, or even realise that it can be harmful. But alcohol is the largest cause of drug-related deaths among Australian teenagers.

What is binge drinking?

The term 'binge drinking' can mean different things to different people, but some common definitions are:

  • drinking so that you can deliberately get drunk
  • occasional and irregular bouts of heavy drinking
  • normally being a responsible drinker, but often overindulging.

Binge drinking: the risks

Regularly drinking large amounts of alcohol can damage your body, social life and relationships. And if you're under 18, the health risks are even more serious.

Some of the risks involved with binge drinking include:

  • having accidents
  • getting into fights or arguments
  • missing work
  • feeling depressed
  • passing out
  • loss of valuable and personal items like wallets, jewellery, phones
  • having unsafe sex.

Some of the long-term risks of binge drinking include:

  • liver damage
  • stomach ulcers
  • sexual problems
  • weight problems
  • depression.

Becoming addicted

One of the most serious long-term risks of binge drinking is becoming dependent on alcohol, both physically and psychologically.

When this happens you feel as though your body can't function without alcohol. Drinking can become more important than anything else in your life. This is what is known as alcohol dependency or alcoholism.

If you or someone you know is addicted to alcohol you can get help through Directline, which provides confidential alcohol and drug counselling and referrals in Victoria.

How much alcohol is too much?

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) defines a standard drink as a drink that contains 10 grams of pure alcohol. Some examples of drinks that have this much alcohol in them include:

  • one pot (285ml) of full-strength beer
  • three-quarters of a 375ml stubby of full-strength beer
  • one shot (30ml) of straight spirits
  • one small glass of table wine (100ml)
  • three-quarters (330ml) of a bottle of alcoholic soda (alcopop).

This is just a guide. It's important to remember that some venues put more alcohol in their mixed drinks.

Also, a big glass of wine is closer to two standard drinks, and drinks served at home generally have more alcohol in them. Some cocktails have more than one shot of alcohol in them too.

The NHMRC says that to reduce the risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury, healthy men and women should drink no more than 10 standard drinks a week and no more than 4 standard drinks on any one day.

Staying in control

If you choose to drink, here are some ways to avoid bingeing and getting out of control:

  • set yourself a limit on how much you'll drink and stick to it
  • have something to eat before you go out
  • don't drink too fast - sip, don't gulp
  • have a 'spacer' between each alcoholic drink - something nonalcoholic like soft drink or even a glass of water
  • don't drink alone - stay with your friends and look after each other
  • stay active - do something else besides drinking (for example, dancing, talking with mates, going for a walk, playing games, watching movies)
  • don't accept drinks from people you don't know
  • have at least two alcohol-free days every week.

Drinking responsibly doesn't mean you have to give up drinking. It just means being aware of the risks and making decisions to keep you happy and healthy.

Hello Sunday Morning is a movement towards a better drinking culture that encourages people to manage their own drinking. You can start managing your drinking by taking their wellbeing self-assessment or downloading their app.

Other recreational drugs

At some point, you may be offered other recreational drugs that are illegal such as marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, LSD or amphetamines. Taking these drugs is against the law and they are a serious health risk. Be aware that if you use, carry or share illegal drugs, you can be arrested. Check out the facts at Victoria Legal Aid.

There is no quality control for drugs: you don't know where they were made, who made them, what they contain, or even how they will affect you. Every time you take drugs, you are taking a gamble.

Mixing drugs can be even more dangerous - this includes mixing drugs and alcohol.

Don't be pressured by friends into doing drugs. Remember you can always say 'no'.

Addiction

Many drugs can cause dependence if they are used often over a long period of time. People who regularly use drugs can also develop a tolerance, which means they have to keep on taking more of the drug each time to get the same effect. It is often difficult for people to recognise that they have become dependent on alcohol or other drugs.

People who become dependent on a drug can start to crave that drug and in some circumstances will do whatever it takes to get more drugs. It is also very difficult for people who have developed a drug dependence to stop using drugs.

Asking for help when you first suspect you have a problem is important so that you can get support to make changes. The earlier you reach out the better – but it’s never too late.

If you think you are dependent on alcohol or other drugs, speak to your local doctor or call DirectLine, on 1800 888 236 as soon as possible.

What should I do if someone is experiencing an overdose?

An overdose occurs when a person consumes a toxic amount of alcohol, illegal drugs or medications.

An overdose isn't always fatal or life threatening but you should seek medical attention by calling Triple Zero (000) if you suspect an overdose has occurred. 

When seeking emergency services after drug use, police are not usually called unless a death has occurred or ambulance officers are threatened.

Links

Hello Sunday Morning is a movement towards a better drinking culture that encourages people to manage their own drinking. You can start managing your drinking by taking their wellbeing self-assessment or downloading their app.

Better Health Channel - alcohol and drugs has more information about dependence and addiction to alcohol and other drugs, including where to get help.

Better Health Channel - partying safely has more information about staying safe at parties, including party risks and where to get help.

Health Direct - party drugs has information about different kinds of party drugs, their effects and risks, as well as where to get support.