Binge drinking is defined as heavy episodic drinking — the consumption of the largest possible amount of alcohol in the shortest possible time. The goal is to achieve the desired effects of alcohol (intoxication) as quickly as possible.
According to Spain’s National Plan on Drugs, binge drinking is defined as the consumption of five or more alcoholic drinks by men, and at least four by women, within a two-hour period.
This pattern of excessive alcohol consumption is often encouraged by the widespread practice of “botellón” — public street drinking — a behaviour that has become normalised among young people in recent years.
Binge drinking is particularly common among young adults (mainly under 34) and teenagers.
We must take into account the latest figures published by the National Plan on Drugs, which show that 82.7% of men aged 15 to 65 in Spain have consumed alcohol in the past 12 months.
The average age of first alcohol consumption in Spain is 14. Among students aged 14 to 18, 75.9% report having consumed alcohol in the past year, and 32.3% report having engaged in binge drinking.
What are the risks of binge drinking?
The risks — both short- and long-term — are numerous and dangerous. Young people tend to have a very low perception of risk. They continue to gather on weekends to drink, without associating this behaviour with alcohol-related problems. Many argue that they drink for fun and that they can stop whenever they choose.
At first, alcohol may produce feelings of euphoria and well-being, but continued consumption results in sluggishness, slurred speech, difficulty walking, reduced sensory awareness, impaired consciousness, and in severe cases, alcohol poisoning, coma or even cardiorespiratory arrest.
25.8% of 14-year-olds have already experienced alcohol intoxication at least once in their lives. At 15, that figure rises to 40.9%, and by age 16, 57.4% of adolescents have already experienced being drunk.
What should we do?
We must debunk many of the myths surrounding alcohol — such as the belief that “alcohol isn’t a drug,” that “everyone drinks and nothing happens,” or that “beer doesn’t count as alcohol.”
It is vital to offer healthy alternatives for leisure and entertainment, particularly involving family-oriented activities.
If you or someone you know may be at risk, seek help from a specialist centre like Bonaire Holistic. Our professionals will provide expert guidance and assess your alcohol use. We offer individualised treatment plans aimed at restoring your family, social and professional life.
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Bonaire Detox is the specialist addiction treatment centre operated by the Bonaire Group, where our team of experts will assess and advise you regarding your alcohol use.
We offer personalised and individualised treatment plans with the aim of helping you regain control of your family, social and professional life.
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