Whether as a break at the end of a rough day, or, a way to socialize with others, some studies suggest that a glass of wine and the number of moms who drink it may be on the rise. The Internet may be to blame for some of this – with humor-infused blogs and social media channels populated by modern moms, there are enough references to drinking and parenting to fill up an entire Instagram stream. Not that we recommend that.
Many of these moms are the “at home” parent to children, the responsible adult, yet, these women are often seen drinking with friends or posting about it on social media channels and on blogs. Women who drink are on the rise, there are studies to show that, but, how much of the “glamour” of “mommy drinking” is for show, and how many women are in danger of a drunk driving incident on the way to or from a play date?
FBI statistics show that more women are drinking, and drunk driving rates among women are climbing. From 2003-2012, the FBI says that women were arrested for drunk driving about 21 percent more than in previous years. This increase is considered more of an issue for women who work and commute, or for young women who are encouraged to drink more, however, with the online “happy hours” among the “at-home” moms, perhaps the overall acceptance of women who drink has a bigger role to play.
Without a doubt, moms need a break from the constant frustrations and demands of parenting, and there can definitely be a feeling of acceptance among peers (both online and offline) when a bottle of wine is handy during naptime. But, in the end, there are limits to the friendships fortified by an afternoon toast. Moms are at risk, just like everyone, for problems with alcohol, including drunk driving. And by drinking responsibly, they’re keeping those play dates and soccer games fun for everyone.
