March Madness is an exciting time of year for college basketball fans.
But with the excitement comes some severe risks—the potential for excessive alcohol consumption. According to research from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, those aged 18-24 in America are likelier to binge drink than other age groups, especially during sporting events.
alcohol and sports march madness alcohol problem
When it comes to March Madness, alcohol can be a significant problem. Not only can excessive drinking lead to health problems such as liver damage and high blood pressure, but it can also lead to an increased risk of accidents or injuries while celebrating or watching a game. The NCAA has even created an online toolkit to help curb excessive drinking during March Madness.
The NCAA’s March Madness toolkit includes several strategies to help reduce excessive drinking during the tournament. These include creating policies that limit alcohol sales at games or events, increasing enforcement of existing laws related to underage drinking or public intoxication, and providing resources for responsible consumption of alcohol if it is still allowed at an event or game. Additionally, educational efforts should inform students about responsible consumption and healthy alternatives such as non-alcoholic beverages or food options.
It’s essential for those attending basketball games—whether in person or from home—to remember that part of being a responsible fan means understanding your limits when consuming alcohol.
Nothing like getting together with friends and watching the game while enjoying a cold one, or could it cause problems
It’s essential for those attending basketball games—whether in person or from home—to remember that part of being a responsible fan means understanding your limits when consuming alcohol. This means knowing your limits on how much you can drink safely before experiencing adverse effects such as impairment or intoxication. Additionally, if you’re out at a bar watching a game with friends, ensure everyone has access to safe transportation home afterward so they don’t have to drive while impaired by alcohol. Suppose you or someone you know has a problem with drinking alcohol. In that case, it is always essential to kindly and empathetically share about asking for help to get more information about something that could become a problem. This does not mean you’re a terrible friend or stepping outside your place. It simply means you care. You might be able to save the life of someone who has a substance use disorder, specifically with alcohol.
For many sports fans, March Madness is an exciting time—and it should be enjoyed responsibly! By making sure that alcohol consumption is done in moderation while keeping safety in mind, we can all enjoy the tournament without any unnecessary risks associated with excessive drinking.
By Jace A.
