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Whether a binge drinker will turn into an alcoholic depends on the person, according to psychology professor Andrew Downs.
"It's really individual," Downs said. "Forty to 50 percent of students report engaging in binge drinking, but clearly not 40 to 50 percent of adults will have severe drinking problems."
Downs said it's concerning if a person is binge drinking more days than not.
Leslie Storm, Clinical Director of Oregon Partnership's Crisis Line Program, thinks it's important for students who binge drink to know the risk if their habits become an addiction.
"Obviously we know college is a time for experimenting," Storm said. "Some people graduate and they buckle down. But for some people they have set up a pattern."
Kristina Houck, Health Center Counselor, said there are counseling sessions and alcohol assessments for students who need help.
The student can see the results of the assessment and identify their personal risks and how to make changes.
"It provides students the chance to objectively reflect on their choices related to alcohol," Houck said. "Also, they can discuss how they drink and why they drink, as well as things associated with drinking that they don't particularly like."
Believing alcohol is necessary to have fun
Lying about drinking
Significantly increased tolerance
Drinking to escape problems
Depression or mood changes
Poor academic performance
Need help?
Have an alcohol problem?
Health Center: (503) 943-7134
Alcoholics Anonymous: (503) 223-8569
