Substance abuse has been and remains as one of societies greatest social issues. It is a matter that affects individuals of all ages around the world, and has endless dangerous possibilities. More specifically, binge drinking has become a recreational interest among young people from high school to university and college. It is considered as a form of rapidly consuming multiple drinks within a short period causing a person to become intoxicated quickly. One of the most threatening aspects is that it is perceived as a popular social pastime, used to interact with others or for personal enjoyment and entertainment. This positive outlook on binge drinking by teens causes them to minimize all its risks, which can be deadly as 18-year-old Rean Heckroodt and friends and family learned after he recently passed away from consuming enormous amounts of alcohol. Rean, who was partying and drinking with friends, drank nearly a litre of rum in an hour that resulted in him passing out and asphyxiating (Hayes 3). The aftermath of an event like this becomes an eye-opener on how the abuse of alcohol can be fatal, but still does not present all the risks that can occur. What we must ask ourselves and each other is why binge drinking is so popular and can it be dangerous to yourself and those around you? The social aspect, overwhelming dangers that members of our society face, and addiction and mental impact that substance abuse and binge drinking bring upon those affected is a tremendous concern that must be voiced.
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