Alcohol use disorder isn’t only defined by alcoholism, it is a spectrum of alcohol use problems that can include binge drinking.
Our addiction treatment specialists offer treatment for all levels of alcohol use disorder, including binge drinking. The problem of excess alcohol consumption is more common in Illinois than many realize.
What Is Binge Drinking?
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism shares its definition of binge drinking as a drinking pattern that raises a person’s blood alcohol level to a minimum of 0.08 grams. [1] This translates to an average of 5 drinks for men and 4 for women within a two-hour period. [2]
Binge Drinking in Illinois Statistics
The Illinois drinking statistics are surprising, with the state having a higher percentage of binge drinkers across virtually all demographics than the national averages. In the US, 22.1% of adult males and 12.2% of adult females exhibit the identifiers of binge drinking. In Illinois, the numbers are greater with 25.9% of men and 15.1% of women binge drinking. [3] Notable statistics include binge drinking reported among:
- 29.3% of adults 18-44 vs 24.4% nationwide
- 15.3% of adults in suburban areas vs 10.5% nationwide
- 19.8% of adults with high school education vs 15.5% nationwide
Across virtually every demographic, Illinois has a higher percentage of drinkers than the national average. [3]
Combating Alcohol Use Disorder
At our facility for drug and alcohol treatment in Gilman, we are helping men and women overcome their struggles with alcohol use disorder. First, patients participate in our medical detox program in Illinois. Then, they enter into the next stage of treatment, which is typically residential treatment. After finishing residential rehab, patients continue to IOP, OP, or alumni programs.
Though the alcoholism and binge drinking statistics in Illinois are worse than the nationwide numbers, there is a chance for reducing this problem across the state.
Understanding what constitutes as binge drinking and identifying programs that help with recovery can combat alcohol use disorder in our state. Call 888-280-4763 to learn more.
Sources:
- NIH: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism – Drinking Levels Defined
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Binge Drinking
- America’s Health Rankings – Binge Drinking, Illinois
