Women Now Drink as Much as Men — Acknowledging the Trend, But It’s Not Ideal

When I was still immersed in alcohol, I could either keep pace with or outdrink my friends, regardless of their gender. I was a high-functioning, “happy” drunk who skillfully concealed the quantity of alcohol I consumed. In hindsight, I realize that my numbness didn’t equate to joy, yet I wasn’t clumsy, angry, or overly emotional while drinking. This facade allowed me to hide the severity of my drinking issue for a long time, impressing the cisgender men in my circle. Matching drinks without tears or vomit made me a sought-after drinking companion.

To clarify, I wasn’t seeking admiration; I was evading a multitude of emotions and labels, one being the female gender assigned to me at birth. Research has shown that cisgender women traditionally drink less than their male counterparts, but recent statistics indicate a shift. Women are now drinking at levels comparable to men.

In the last few years, the ratio of risky drinking habits between men and women has changed from 3 to 1 to nearly 1 to 1. A series of studies have documented this narrowing gap, revealing that women are now mirroring men’s drinking behaviors, socially and through hazardous practices like binge drinking and chronic alcohol use. Notably, a 2019 study found that women outdrank their male peers during their teenage years and early twenties.

Why is this happening?

Research indicates that women are more likely to drink as a means of coping compared to men. With the idea that women can “have it all,” the burden of achieving goals without adequate support has led many to seek solace in alcohol. Discussions about gender equality often overlook the privileges still predominantly held by men. The pandemic starkly illustrated the disproportionate responsibilities shouldered by women—especially those in relationships with men—when it comes to parenting and household management. During lockdowns, mothers found themselves juggling work while managing their children’s education at home. This overwhelming stress has driven many women to alcohol for relief.

However, this relief is illusory. Alcohol can exacerbate anxiety, creating a vicious cycle that leads to increased consumption, shame, depression, and more anxiety. I am all too familiar with this cycle. The rising levels of alcohol consumption are also taking a toll on physical health. Dr. Sarah Thompson, a liver specialist at a prominent hospital, reports a 30% increase in cases of alcoholic liver disease over the past year. “We’re seeing younger patients in their late 20s and early 30s with conditions we previously associated with middle age,” she explains. Between 2006 and 2014, alcohol-related emergency room visits among women surged by 70%, compared to 58% for men.

Although I don’t identify as female, my liver health is assessed based on its “female” size, influenced by my body weight and water composition. Dr. Thompson emphasizes that how a body metabolizes alcohol varies by body composition and enzyme distribution, which differs between genders. Those assigned female at birth face a higher risk of liver disease if they consume equal amounts of alcohol as their male counterparts.

Having been sober for almost four years, I’m grateful I didn’t inflict irreversible damage on my liver. I’m still grappling with the guilt from my drinking days while seeking healthier coping mechanisms. Like many, particularly women and mothers, I found it challenging to ask for help. It can be hard to recognize a problem when alcohol is often suggested as the solution.

Feeling stressed? Have a drink!
Got kids? You need a drink!
Overwhelmed? Let’s grab a drink or three!
Feeling sad? A beer will cheer you up.
Nervous? Pour some liquid courage and face it!

I wish I could drink responsibly. I wish I could enjoy a drink without it amplifying my issues. Yet, since self-medication with alcohol is socially accepted, I fell into that trap. The stigma surrounding addiction is compounded by judgment, particularly for parents grappling with substance use. Acknowledging my toxic relationship with alcohol was essential for me to make changes. It wasn’t easy to quit; the struggle became harder to ignore the more I tried to abstain. That was the realization I needed to commit to sobriety.

Reflecting on Your Relationship with Alcohol

When was the last time you evaluated your relationship with alcohol? Have you consulted a doctor or therapist about your mental and physical health? If you’re concerned about your drinking habits, consider reaching out to a friend, loved one, or mental health professional. For confidential assistance, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, which offers resources in your area.

I can’t promise an easy journey, but it will certainly be better if you engage in honest conversations about your drinking and take necessary steps towards a more authentic life. For more insights on related topics, check out this post on home insemination and explore this resource for further information on pregnancy and home insemination.

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In summary, the trend of women drinking as much as men is alarming and indicative of deeper societal issues. With the pressures of modern life, many women are turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism, which brings serious health risks. Acknowledging and addressing these behaviors is crucial for better mental and physical well-being.