What’s the Buzz about Binge Drinking? – Expert Advice from RWJBarnabas Health

April 16, 2026 - When we talk about binge drinking, it's often in the context of college-aged adults. However, Alexis LaPietra, DO, FACEP, Medical Director of the RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery (IFPR) and Director of Addiction Medicine for Emergency & Hospitalist Services at RWJBarnabas Health, shares that while binge drinking is most common in adults aged 18-25, it is a concern for all ages.

In fact, Dr. LaPietra explains, "Binge drinking is defined as four or more drinks for women or five or more drinks for men within a two-hour period." Factors such as height and weight can also have an impact on how alcohol affects you.

Dr. LaPietra shares that binge drinking increases the risk of acute harm, such as blackouts, accidents or trauma. "It's also important to remember that binge drinking reduces our ability to make safe choices, increases the likelihood of unsafe sexual behavior and is a contributing factor for accidental deaths."

Recognizing that there can be a social aspect to binge drinking-such as attending a social event, relaxing at a gathering or enjoying a holiday-Dr. LaPietra states, "Oftentimes, individuals don't view these occasions of overindulgence as problematic because they are enjoying themselves. However, it can be difficult to moderate your intake at a larger gathering that spans many hours." Staying aware and being mindful that binge drinking can occur in a variety of social situations, regardless of age, helps us all stay more informed.

Dr. LaPietra reminds everyone to always have a plan to stay safe. Go to an event with an idea of how many alcoholic beverages you intend to have, stay hydrated with water or try to swap a drink for a non-alcoholic beverage, eat something before you drink alcohol and always have a plan to get home safe.

Binge Drinking vs. Alcohol Use Disorder

The simple difference is that binge drinking is a behavior, whereas alcohol use disorder is a clinical, treatable condition. Both pose risks.

"Like any mental health condition, there is nuance. Some individuals who binge drink may also have alcohol use disorder, but some do not," Dr. LaPietra explains. "When we are assessing a patient for alcohol use disorder, we're looking to understand if alcohol use is impacting their daily life in a harmful way, such as daily intrusive thoughts about drinking alcohol, regularly drinking more alcohol than intended or experiencing withdrawal symptoms."

The first step is to understand your own daily habits. Dr. LaPietra recommends reflecting on the past few weeks to see if you notice any patterns, such as drinking alcohol at certain events, around certain people or after a certain emotion. You can also try asking yourself if you regularly think about alcohol or feel the urge to drink alcohol. Then, follow up with an open and honest conversation with your primary care provider about what you've observed. "Alcohol use disorder is a treatable condition. You are not alone; support is available."

Reducing Your Alcohol Use

Dr. LaPietra reminds everyone that there are no known health benefits to drinking alcohol. Long-term alcohol use-whether through binge drinking or consistent daily use-can increase the risk of chronic diseases and several types of cancer and can negatively impact your mental health. General guidelines recommend not exceeding seven drinks a week for women and fourteen drinks a week for men. She adds, "Making the decision to drink less alcohol will always come with health benefits; it can even improve your sleep and general mood!"

Dr. LaPietra emphasizes that cutting back on alcohol use, like any lifestyle change, can be a challenge. "We live in an age where social media creates a narrative around much of what we do and experience. This can add pressure when making a lifestyle change, especially one related to your health. It's important to remember that the goal is progress, not perfection."

If you notice you're struggling to cut back or stop your alcohol use, you should contact your primary care provider. Additionally, if you are experiencing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal such as heart palpitations, tremors, confusion or dizziness, call 911 or seek emergency care immediately.

For those looking to manage their alcohol use, our team can help support you. Contact IFPR's Peer Recovery Program at 848-303-0008 to speak with a certified recovery specialist. Recovery specialists can help you address your use of substances, build healthier coping skills and cultivate a supportive community. You can also visit rwjbh.org/preventionandrecovery to learn more about the RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery.