There is no simple yes or no answer to that question, for a number of reasons. To begin with, depending on what kind of alcoholic beverage it is, the alcohol content is going to be either lower or higher. From there, the amount consumed and how the drink is mixed can have an effect on the percent of alcohol already present.
These factors, as well as others, can have an effect on the potential for alcohol abuse. For example, wine coolers may have less than 7% alcohol in them; some go as low as 3.2%. This small amount of alcohol may lead one to believe that so many would have to be consumed before a “buzz” is even felt, that it would be all right to drink as many as they wanted. If you look at the numbers, however, and remember that each individual cooler contains that amount of alcohol, and that amount times the number of coolers actually equals the amount of alcohol consumed, then alcohol abuse is possible.
A similar situation can occur with mixed drinks. A person (or establishment) may limit the amount of liquor that is added to a mixed drink. However, even 1½ ounce of liquor, the amount of liquor a normal “shot glass” holds, may contain 40% to 50% alcohol, depending on the alcohol content of the liquor itself. Again, do the math. The more drinks consumed, the more the numbers are going to add up. Adding water, soda, or other liquids may reduce the alcohol slightly, but not by much.
Unfortunately, neglecting to pay attention to the alcohol content of any alcohol beverage, or simply choosing to ignore it, is what often leads to alcohol abuse. Fortunately, there are alcohol abuse treatment centers that provide help for those who have developed or are in danger of developing a problem.
You will notice the last paragraph mentioned the danger of developing a problem. Some people choose to get alcohol abuse treatment as soon as they even suspect they may have a problem, before it gets any worse. This is a wise decision, as doing this can literally stop the situation in its tracks.
For information on alcohol abuse treatment centers in your area, please log on to http://www.recoverforever.com/ or call 1-866-923-1134. Remember, you can call or get online help before alcohol abuse becomes a serious problem.
