When I was heavily consuming alcohol, I could easily match my friends drink for drink, regardless of their gender. I was what some might call a high-functioning, “happy” drunk, adept at concealing the true extent of my alcohol intake. Over time, I’ve come to understand that the numbness I sought didn’t lead to genuine happiness. While I wasn’t prone to clumsiness, anger, or excessive emotion while drinking—which allowed me to hide my issue for quite a while—I did garner some admiration from my peers, particularly from men who were impressed by my ability to keep pace. However, my motivations were rooted in escaping emotions and societal expectations, particularly those tied to my assigned gender at birth.
Recent studies indicate that the drinking habits of women are catching up to those of men. The ratio of risky drinking patterns has shifted dramatically from 3 to 1 in favor of men to nearly equal levels today. Research illustrates that women are now partaking in alcohol consumption at similar rates as men, often engaging in binge drinking and daily alcohol use. Alarmingly, a 2019 study highlighted that young women in their teens and early twenties are drinking more than their male counterparts.
Why This Shift?
Experts suggest that women are increasingly turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism, facing pressures to “have it all” without receiving comparable support to their male peers. The pandemic exacerbated these challenges, revealing how much women—particularly those in relationships—juggle responsibilities such as parenting and household management. With the added stress of remote schooling and lack of childcare, many women resorted to alcohol as a way to alleviate their overwhelming situations.
Unfortunately, this reliance on alcohol can create a vicious cycle. While it may seem like a temporary solution, alcohol actually heightens anxiety, leading to an increased need for more alcohol, accompanied by feelings of shame and depression. Dr. Amy Collins, a liver specialist, notes a troubling 30% rise in cases of alcoholic liver disease among younger populations, with individuals in their late twenties and early thirties presenting conditions once thought to be limited to older adults. Notably, emergency room visits related to alcohol have surged by 70% among women in recent years.
Although I don’t identify as female, my liver health is assessed based on its “female” size. The impact of alcohol on my body—a combination of weight and water content—means that drinking poses a greater risk for those assigned female at birth. This demographic is more likely to develop liver diseases earlier than those assigned male at birth, even with similar alcohol consumption levels.
Having been sober for almost four years, I am grateful that I did not suffer severe damage during my drinking years. I continue to grapple with the guilt of that past while seeking healthier coping mechanisms. Like many, especially women and mothers, I found it difficult to ask for help. Society often suggests alcohol as a remedy: feeling stressed? Have a drink! Overwhelmed? You need a drink! Sad? A beer will cheer you up.
I wish I could drink responsibly, to enjoy a drink and still engage with my emotions. Instead, drinking exacerbated my issues, yet it was socially acceptable to self-medicate. The stigma surrounding addiction, particularly for parents, can make it seem impossible to seek help. However, confronting my toxic relationship with alcohol was crucial for my journey to sobriety. Acknowledging the difficulty of quitting was the first step in my recovery.
Take Action
Have you recently evaluated your relationship with alcohol? It may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider or mental health professional about your drinking habits. Resources like the CDC can provide valuable information on mental and physical health, while those seeking support can reach out to specialists in the field, such as Intracervical Insemination for guidance. Remember, making positive changes starts with open conversations about your drinking and the necessary steps towards a more authentic life.
If you’re interested in further reading, check out this related post on our blog here.
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Summary
The trend of women drinking as much as men is concerning, with many turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism amid societal pressures and stress. This shift has health implications, particularly regarding liver health. Acknowledging one’s relationship with alcohol can be the first step towards recovery, and seeking help is crucial.