Binge drinking can put a person at risk of developing future alcohol dependency: Experts

Repeated binge drinking can also be an early warning signal of somebody who's unable to reasonable their alcohol consumption, mentioned Dr Guo Song, a senior marketing consultant at the Institute of Mental Health’s National Addictions Management Service (NAMS).“Although there is no immediate risk for alcohol use disorder, binge episodes can gradually increase until alcohol is consumed or required on a daily basis, and the individual thereby develops an alcohol use disorder over a period of time,” he mentioned.He added that indicators of alcohol use dysfunction embrace a robust and persevering with compulsion to drink with a view to "feel the buzz" in addition to giving up or lowering necessary social, occupational or leisure actions.Responding to queries from CNA, NAMS mentioned it has not seen a vital enhance within the quantity of alcohol dependancy circumstances throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.However, it famous that stocking up on alcohol at house and ordering alcohol deliveries have develop into more commonplace amid dine-in restrictions.“Increased accessibility to alcohol at home, unusual pressures in relation to the pandemic and a lack of social outlets may lead to higher risk of developing alcohol use disorder,” mentioned Dr Guo."Habitual drinking might happen as a handy however maladaptive technique of dealing with stressors, and a substitute for wholesome social actions which incorporates train and hobbies,” he added.Ultimately, consultants say drinking alcohol needs to be performed carefully.Dr Lee advised limiting alcohol to 2 drinks a day for males and one a day for ladies.“Younger adults are not less susceptible to alcohol-related diseases, as the health effects are largely dose-dependent,” he mentioned, including that elevated consumption can enhance the risk of alcohol-related illnesses.

WHERE YOU MAY SEEK HELP

Alcoholics Anonymous Singapore: 8112 8089, or assist [at] singaporeaa.orgNational Addictions Management Service: 6 RECOVER or 6732 6837 (8am-11pm)We Care Community Services: 3165 8017 (Monday to Friday, 10am-7pm), or assist [at] wecare.org.sgSamaritans of Singapore: 1 767 (24 hours)Singapore Association of Mental Health: 1800 283 7019 (Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm)Emergency Helpline (Institute of Mental Health): 6389 2222 (24 hours)Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 1800 353 5800 (10am-10pm)Tinkle Friend: 1800 274 4788 (Monday to Friday, 2.30pm-5pm)