Binge drinking, excessive consumption of alcohol in a short amount of time, presents itself as an issue for many college students. According to Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (cdc.gov), “[binge drinking] typically happens when men consume 5 or more drinks or women consume 4 or more drinks in about 2 hours” — many students fall under this definition when engaging in the act of “pregaming”, usually before a social event or function. The mandatory program, AlcoholEDU, anonymously surveys students for the reason they drink: be more social, to have fun, feel more confident/attractive, and etc. However, these reasons do not serve as excuses for unnecessary participation in binge drinking.
More than 21% of Chico’s adult population are guilty of heavy drinking; furthermore, over 34% of deaths due to car accidents are related to alcohol — giving Chico the title of “the drunkest city in the state of California” (foxla.com). Under the impression of a “party school”, students may feel peer pressured or even willingly consume alcohol. However, the consequences of binge drinking not only puts the individual in danger, but the people around them as well. Students should take action in preventing binge drinking by saying “NO!” to peer pressure, avoiding drinking-games, and simply removing themselves from the environment. Sometimes, individuals can even acknowledge themselves for the progress they made, or eliminate the consumption of alcohol altogether to avoid the chance of binge drinking. With the lack of possible danger binge drinking can bring upon the individual and environment, Chico can become a safer place for everyone.
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