Binge Drinking 101: Day dedicated to informing students about abuse

Quarters, three man, beer pong, cups, anchorman -- for some, drinking games are an integral part of the college experience, with drinking during the college years seen as a rite of passage. However, students who participate in games that promote dangerous drinking can risk more than losing just a game -- they can lose their lives.\nAlthough statistics indicate that college drinking is down from a decade ago, recent studies show that risky or what has commonly been termed as "binge drinking" (five or more drinks in one sitting for men, four for women) has increased over the past 10 years. \nAlcohol abuse and risky drinking can cause more that just a nagging hangover. Other dangers associated with alcohol abuse and risky drinking include property damage, disciplinary problems, date rape, risky sexual behavior, poor academic performance, physical injury, illness and even death. For example, nearly half of all motor vehicle deaths of college-age men are alcohol-related.\nIn 1999, a study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health reported that two out of five students (44 percent) were binge or risky drinkers. Some warning signs of alcohol abuse include acting more interested in alcohol than in relationships, sports or classes; getting low grades or missing classes because of drinking; acting like a different person when drinking at parties; and getting mad or upset if asked about his or her drinking.\nTo address the potential dangers of alcohol abuse and dependency, April 11 has been designated as "National Alcohol Screening Day" on campuses and in communities across the country.\nOn this day, students at IU will have the opportunity to get information about the risks of alcohol use and to assess their drinking behaviors. A brief, anonymous paper-and-pencil self-assessment will ask students about their drinking habits and if their behaviors have changed due to their drinking. Feedback will be given on-site, with students having the opportunity to talk one-on-one with a health professional. If appropriate, participants may be referred to support or treatment services available on campus or in the community. \nThe purpose of National Alcohol Screening Day is not to eliminate alcohol from campus but rather to educate students about the impact and dangers of alcohol. National Alcohol Screening Day accomplishes this by teaching students how to recognize a drinking problem, where to go for help and how long-term alcohol abuse can affect the mind and body. \nAlcohol information and screening centers will be located at the Indiana Memorial Union and School of Education April 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., as well as at the Student Recreational Sports and Aquatic Center from 4:30 to 7 p.m. \nFor additional information about alcohol or the screening program, visit www.mentalhealthscreening.org/alcohol.htm.