Whether labelled ‘binge drinking’, ‘extreme drinking’ or ‘heavy episodic drinking’, any pattern of drinking that involves rapid intoxication or intoxication for an extended period of time carries the potential for considerable social, psychological and physical harm, and should be avoided.

While there is no universal scientific or medical definition of what constitutes ‘binge’ or ‘excessive drinking, it usually means drinking excessive amounts of alcohol in a short period of time.

Whatever the definition, the important thing is what can be done to prevent it.