Teen Use of Alcohol

Alcohol is the most widely used substance among teens and underage drinking is a big public health concern in our country as it can pose enormous health risks and negative consequences.

Peer pressure, the desire or need for independence, and the search for new challenges are just a few reasons why underage drinking is attractive to teens. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that:

1. Roughly 46% of 16-17-year-olds, 25% of 14-15-year-olds, and 9% of 12-13-year-olds reported using alcohol at least once.
2. Alcohol is a factor in the deaths of approximately 4,300 people under 21 in the United States per year.
3. 17% of high school students in 2017 reported riding in a car driven by someone who had been drinking.

Warning Signs

Teenagers are expected to experience various behaviors and emotions as they navigate their pre- and teen years. However, determining if a teen’s behaviors are typical or if something may be up and out of the norm can be challenging. The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Addiction (NIAAA) shared a few things to look for if suspecting use:

1. Differences in mood or attitude
2. Dips in grades or behavior
3. Signs of rebellion
4. Different social groups
5. Fatigue
6. Low motivation
7. Seeing or smelling anything
8. Difficulty remembering
9. Change in speech

Trying to Stop It

Preventing underage drinking isn’t a one-stop shop. It requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach with engagement from teens, parents, educators, and the community.

Understanding the complexity of influencers on teens, from genetics and personality to social environments is crucial for effective prevention. It’s not just about lecturing; it’s about empowering teens with the skills and tools needed to navigate the challenges associated with alcohol. This knowledge prepares teens to make healthy choices and influence others not to drink as well.

For schools, creating dynamic, engaging programs like Drug Free Clubs of America empowers students to make the right decision (even when it seems too hard), encourages active participation, and fosters skills like self-esteem and critical thinking. These programs are pivotal in helping teens make informed, confident decisions.

Families can help prevent underage drinking through open dialogue about alcohol, clear guidelines, and consistent support. Leading by example and being actively involved, parents can reinforce and guide their teens toward better decision-making.

Community members can help prevent underage drinking through their support of local events and initiatives promoting drug-free lifestyles. Special rewards and incentives can reinforce teens’ decisions to avoid alcohol (and drugs) in a fun and rewarding way.

A Tip for Parents

NIAAA supports that teens with actively involved parents are less likely to drink alcohol. It’s about cultivating an environment of trust and guidance rather than mere rule enforcement. Demonstrating positive behaviors and being actively involved are powerful ways to reinforce these messages.

Not sure where to start? Download our free guide–10 Tips for Talking to Your Child About Substance Use–to begin the conversation today! Follow us on Instagram or Facebook for informative content, prevention resources, the latest facts, and more ways to guide your teen.

Drug Free Clubs of America is on a mission to reduce the impacts of drug use on youth. Across the nation, drug and alcohol use is on the rise among teens. We provide students with practical tools and techniques to navigate peer pressure and choose a healthy lifestyle. Partnering with schools and communities, we offer preventative programming to meet students where they are. Through randomized drug testing, educational resources, a positive outlet, and a supportive community, we are changing school cultures and reducing alcohol, marijuana, vaping, and other detrimental activities among our members and the entire school body. Drug Free Clubs of America has over as over 7,000 active student and faculty/staff members and Clubs in over 50 schools in Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and California.