How drinking 'for fun' can become a lifetime regret

I remember his story clearly. It happened a few years ago. At first, he would have "just a few drinks for fun" with friends after hours. But soon, he thought "not drinking feels off." He started drinking more than usual but still insisted on driving home.

One night, after drinking, he lost control of his motorbike and crashed. The injuries were not life-threatening, but the fall served as a harsh wake-up call. His family was worried. His wife and children were heartbroken. He was embarrassed in front of his coworkers. After that night, he made the decision to drastically cut back on alcohol.

But not everyone is lucky enough to learn their lesson with just a light fall.

A group of people drinking beer in a bar. Photo by Pexels

For years, the consequences of alcohol consumption have been widely discussed in Vietnam. Media outlets have regularly reported on traffic accidents and domestic violence linked to drinking, as well as the mounting burden alcohol places on the healthcare system.

Still, despite how often these warnings appear, many people remain indifferent or dangerously unaware of how dangerous alcohol can be. Drinking "for fun," "to be sociable," "out of courtesy," or "because it’s cultural" is still the usual excuse in many gatherings. And so alcohol continues to play a central role in social life, despite its risks.

One reason this persists is that alcohol has become embedded in Vietnamese social expectations, from family meals to business meetings. Refusing to drink is often seen as rude, unenthusiastic, or antisocial. This subtle social pressure leads many to drink even when they know the harm.

Worse, many still believe that "a little alcohol is fine." But science tells us even small amounts can impair focus, reduce driving ability, and cause long-term health issues. This false sense of safety is dangerous. When tragedy strikes, the cost is not just financial, but also physical, emotional, and reputational.

Another issue is weak law enforcement. At times, alcohol checkpoints were rigorously enforced, and traffic accidents dropped sharply. But once enforcement eased, people relaxed and fell back into old habits. Without consistent monitoring and meaningful penalties, the sense of impunity continues.

I believe the most important solution is changing public awareness. Everyone must understand that there is no "safe limit" for drinking and driving. No celebration is worth risking your health or life. There is no obligation strong enough to justify endangering yourself and others.

Families, workplaces, and communities must also foster healthy environments and encourage socializing that does not depend on alcohol.

As long as society continues to normalize drinking, we will keep seeing tragedies that could have been avoided. And each time we see someone lose everything, or nearly everything, over a few drinks, we are reminded that today's indifference is tomorrow's disaster.