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At-Risk Drinking

At-Risk Drinking
 Even moderate drinking can interfere with medications, sleep, and judgment. Understanding what counts as “at-risk” drinking helps you make informed choices and protect your health long-term.

Why it matters
Alcohol can affect nearly every organ in the body. Drinking too much—whether all at once or over time—can lead to liver disease, heart problems, cancer, depression, and accidents.

What is considered at-risk drinking?

According to the CDC and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA):

  • For women: More than 1 drink per day or 8 drinks per week
  • For men: More than 2 drinks per day or 14 drinks per week
  • Binge drinking: 4+ drinks (women) or 5+ drinks (men) on one occasion

Even occasional heavy drinking can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and certain cancers.

A man drinking alcohol. There are several empty bottles indicating a drinking problem.

Tips to drink safely - or not at all

checkmark Know your limits. Track how much and how often you drink.

checkmark Set alcohol-free days. Choose specific days each week to avoid drinking altogether.

checkmark Alternate with water. Stay hydrated and slow down your drinking pace.

checkmark Eat before and while drinking. Food slows alcohol absorption.

checkmark Plan ahead. Decide how you’ll get home safely if you plan to drink.

checkmark Be honest with yourself. If you drink to cope with stress, anxiety, or sadness, consider talking to a counselor or healthcare provider.

checkmark Seek help early. Free and confidential help is available 24/7 through the SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or talk to your PCP.

checkmark If you are ready to quit & have a history of heavy drinking, consult your doctor.

Self-Assessment: Am I drinking responsibly?

Instructions:
Answer the questions below to reflect on your alcohol use and identify if you may be at risk. Use the tips above to create a plan for reducing or avoiding alcohol.

 

1. 
How often do you drink alcohol?

2. 
When you drink, how many drinks do you usually have in one sitting?

3. 
How often do you drink more than you intended?

4. 
Do you drink to manage stress, sadness, or anxiety?

5. 
Have friends, family, or coworkers expressed concern about your drinking?

6. 
Have you driven, operated machinery, or cared for children after drinking?

7. 
Do you know the national guidelines to low-risk drinking (see above)?

 

 

Posted on January 16th, 2026 and last modified on May 18th, 2026.

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