Do I Drink Too Much?
As a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, I am often asked my opinion about alcohol consumption. Do I drink too much? What’s a normal amount of alcohol to drink? How do I know if I have a problem? I’m worried that my loved one is an alcoholic. Can Christians drink?
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that in 2021, 133.1 million people aged 12 or older used alcohol in the past month. Among them, 60 million people were classified as binge drinkers and 17.7 million people were classified as heavy drinkers.
SAMHSA defines...
· Binge drinking as 5 or more alcoholic drinks for males or 4 or more alcoholic drinks for females on the same occasion (i.e., at the same time or within a couple of hours of each other) on at least 1 day in the past month.
· Heavy alcohol use for men as consuming more than 4 drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks per week. For women it means consuming more than 3 drinks on any day or more than 7 drinks per week.
· Drinking in moderation as 2 drinks or less in a day for men and 1 drink or less in a day for women.
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
· How often do I drink?
· How much alcohol do I consume?
· Do I drink more than I initially intended?
· Do I feel a strong urge or craving to drink alcohol?
· Am I unable to control or reduce my alcohol intake?
· Do I notice that I need to consume more alcohol to achieve the desired effects?
· Do I experience physical or psychological symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, sweating, tremors, or nausea when I attempt to stop drinking?
· Has my alcohol consumption caused me to neglect my obligations, such as work, school, or personal relationships?
· Is my drinking causing conflicts or issues with friends and family?
· Have I noticed physical or mental health issues due to my alcohol consumption, such as liver problems, memory loss, mood swings, or depression?
· Have I tried to reduce or quit drinking in the past but found it challenging or unsuccessful?
While the Bible does not explicitly condemn the moderate and responsible use of alcohol, it does provide guidance and caution regarding its potential pitfalls. The Bible acknowledges both positive and negative aspects of alcohol. It highlights the joy and celebration associated with wine, but it also warns against its abuse and the potential harm it can cause.
Christians should strive to understand the biblical principles surrounding alcohol and approach it with discernment. Moderation and self-control are essential when it comes to alcohol consumption. The Bible advises against drunkenness, which can impair judgment, lead to poor decision-making, and hinder our ability to live as ambassadors of Christ.
It’s crucial to know our limits and make wise choices that align with our commitment to a Christ-centered life. While the Bible does not provide a specific alcohol consumption limit, it encourages believers to be mindful of their actions and the potential impact on others. As individuals, we may need to establish personal boundaries based on our own circumstances, health, and the influence we have on those around us. It’s important to be aware of our vulnerabilities and the potential for alcohol to become a stumbling block. The Apostle Paul encourages us in Romans 14 to be considerate of our weaker brothers and sisters, refraining from actions that could cause them to stumble. This includes being sensitive to the impact our alcohol consumption may have on others.
If you're concerned about your alcohol consumption, I encourage you to reach out for help. You are not alone! Visit your doctor for an evaluation. Contact a therapist. Go to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. Attend a Celebrate Recovery group. If you are worried about someone’s drinking and need support, visit Al-Anon or Alateen.
Jennifer Antonucci, M.A., LMFT, LCADC