The annual NCAA tournament, March Madness, showcases some of the best up-and-coming basketball talents in the nation. It also showcases the pitfalls of excessive alcohol use and binge drinking among young adults.
Students and fans attend tailgate parties, bar or house viewing parties, and post-game celebrations during the tournament. There is often a single-minded goal to have a drink of alcohol.
The tournament has a significant positive effect on every school involved. Yet, it does increase exposure to the influence of excessive alcohol consumption. Fortunately, there are practical ways to avoid March Madness alcohol abuse, stay sober, or participate in the festivities responsibly. 
Firstly, if you know someone struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, it is vital to get them help. Addictions worsen over time without any intervention. 
“Binge drinking is most common among young adults aged 18 to 34 and most common among men,” said Marcel Gemme of Addicted.org. “We often notice a lack of available prevention and information about the dangers of excessive alcohol use.”
Binge drinking is defined as a pattern of drinking that rapidly increases blood alcohol concentration. Among men, this involves five drinks or more within two hours, and for women, this is four drinks or more within two hours. 
Whether you are in recovery, choosing sobriety, or responsible alcohol consumption, there are practical ways to keep the ship right and not get lost in the storm. 
Suppose you are a casual drinker of legal age. Stick to one or two alcoholic beverages during the game. Drink water and have a full meal to avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Avoid the drinking games, and do not get sucked into group binge drinking. Finally, even if you do not feel intoxicated, do not take a chance driving. 
In contrast, if you are in recovery or choosing sobriety this time of year, having a plan in place is a good idea. Initially, recognize and manage relapse triggers, for example, bars, parties, people, environments, and negative emotions. Have a healthy way to address these triggers and set clear boundaries for yourself. 
Bring non-alcoholic drinks and attend the games or parties with other sober like-minded people if you choose to attend a celebration. Having support makes it much easier to remain sober. Also, have an exit plan if things become too much to manage and ask for help or support. 
Recognize your limits, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
There are significant dangers associated with binge drinking and excessive alcohol use. It is estimated that over 300 people die each day from excessive alcohol use.
Individuals are at risk of alcohol poisoning, suicide attempts, health problems, unsafe sexual behavior, driving under the influence, involvement with the police, sexual assault, assault, and even death. 
These are the cataclysmic pitfalls associated with binge drinking. Yet, it is all avoidable with sobriety or making responsible choices when consuming alcohol.
March Madness is one of the most exciting sports events of the year. However, being part of the fun should not cost your health or future. Make good choices, be aware of the risks, and watch out for one another.