Nickolaus Hayes is a healthcare professional in the field of substance abuse and addiction recovery. He strives to provide current, up-to-date facts about drug and alcohol abuse to his readers. His primary focus is spreading awareness by educating individuals on the topics surrounding substance abuse. 

It is likely a safe bet that for every tip-off during March Madness, students and fans will consume excessive amounts of alcohol.  

Binge drinking is common at large sporting events. While the NCAA tournament positively impacts every school involved, there is a negative aspect. Students and fans are overly exposed to the influence of excessive alcohol use or binge drinking.  

While most adults of legal age drink responsibly, avoiding the pitfalls of heavy drinking can still be challenging.  

Fortunately, there are practical ways to help, whether someone is in recovery, choosing sobriety, or participating responsibly.  

Firstly, if you know someone struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, it is critical to get them help. Any substance use problem worsens with time and no help.  

Marcel Gemme of Addicted.org said, “Heavy alcohol use or binge drinking is most common among younger adults aged 18 to 34, primarily men. We feel it is critical to have adequate preventative information and be aware of the risks involved with binge drinking.” 

Avoiding the pitfalls of heavy alcohol use takes planning.  

Suppose someone is in recovery from their addiction or choosing sobriety during the tournament. It is a good idea to identify relapse triggers. A trigger could be people, groups, places, environments, or anything that could cause someone to want to drink. Manage these triggers by setting clear boundaries and limitations.  

Have a healthy outlet to manage negative emotions, such as exercise or hobbies. Stay focused on the positive aspects of the tournament. Attend a game or post-game celebration with other sober, like-minded people. Bring non-alcoholic drinks. If things become too much to manage, have an exit plan, and ask for help when needed.  

In contrast, if someone is a casual drinker of legal age, stick to one or two alcoholic beverages during the game. Drink water and have a full meal to avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Avoid drinking games and binge drinking environments. Do not drink and drive.  

Binge drinking is a pattern of consuming alcohol that rapidly increases blood alcohol concentration to or above 0.08 percent. Among adult men, this generally takes five or more drinks within two hours, and for women, four or more drinks in two hours.  

There are severe consequences to binge drinking, such as alcohol poisoning, suicide attempts, health problems, personal injury, sexual assault, DUIs, assault and even death.  

This impacts college students, their families, and college campuses.  

While it is exciting basketball, participating in the fun should not cost anyone their health or future. Be responsible, stay safe, and make good choices.