Ask any high school teacher or guidance counselor about underage drinking and you’ll discover that the underage drinking statistics can be pretty disturbing. Parents may be quick to point out good grades or sports performance as evidence of “not my kid,” but the facts regarding underage drinking statistics indicate that, indeed, many teens are drinking much more and more often than their parents realize.
Underage Drinking Facts
- Adolescents (people between the ages of 12 and 20) consume 11% of the alcohol consumed in the United States.
- More than half of American teenagers (approximately 65%) have tried drinking at least once before reaching age 18.
- When teens engage in drinking behavior, approximately 90% of the alcohol they drink is consumed during a binge drinking episode. This means teens are much more likely to engage in binge drinking than adult drinkers. A binge is defined as drinking enough alcohol within a short period of time (usually about two hours) so that blood-alcohol concentration reaches the .08 g/dL. For younger adolescents (ages 12 to 13), three drinks is enough to be defined as a binge. For 14- to 15-year-olds, four drinks is defined as a binge, and for teens 16 to 17, five drinks is typically a binge.
- Teens who report drinking before age 15 are six times more likely to develop serious alcohol dependence issues later in life than those who waited until the legal drinking age of 21 to begin drinking.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that over 4,000 teens die each year due to underage drinking (either directly via alcohol overdose, suicide or indirectly due to accidents or violence).
What Do the Facts Tell Us?
The above facts and figures should be taken seriously, as underage drinking can have serious repercussions for teens, their families, and society. Parents should talk openly with their children about alcohol use and the dangers associated with it. Educators, doctors, and other trusted adults can also help to spread awareness of the risks of underage drinking. With early intervention, education, and strong support, teens can make healthy choices when it comes to alcohol use.
By understanding the facts about underage drinking, parents and other concerned adults can help prevent risky behaviors before they become a problem. The more informed everyone is about the figures and risks associated with teen drinking, the better equipped we are to combat this public health crisis.
Ultimately, we must all work together to reduce underage drinking and its associated risks. By understanding the facts, talking openly with our children about alcohol use, and providing support systems for teens, we can help ensure the health and safety of today’s youth.
Understanding the causes of underage drinking can help guide prevention efforts and alcoholism treatment. Education, both for teens and their caregivers, is a great first step. Becoming familiar with underage drinking statistics can help teens and those who love them to better understand the scope of this problem and work to reverse these trends.
The Need For Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Drug and alcohol addiction treatment is a process of helping teens and young adults who have become dependent on drugs or alcohol. It enables them to stop using these substances, manage their cravings, and live healthier lives. Treatment typically involves a combination of different therapies and treatments such as:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- 12-step programs
- Medication management
- Holistic healing methods
- Family counseling
- Individual counseling
Treatment is tailored to the individual’s specific needs. This would include things such as the severity of their addiction, any underlying mental health conditions, family dynamics, and personal goals. With proper treatment and support, individuals can learn skills to better manage their cravings. Also, they can find healthier ways to cope with life’s stressors. Recovery from addiction is a lifelong journey. Fortunately, treatment can help provide individuals with the tools and strategies necessary for long-term success.
Get Help Today From Right Step
At Right Step, we understand that the process of recovery from addiction is challenging and can be overwhelming. That’s why our experienced team of professionals is here to help. They can provide you with evidence-based treatment and support in a safe, comfortable environment. We offer personalized treatment plans for each individual, including therapies such as CBT, medication management, holistic care, and much more.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance misuse, contact us today at 17135283709 to learn more about the addiction treatment options available at Right Step. We’re here to help you find your path toward lasting recovery.
https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-facts-and-statistics https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/UnderageDrinking/UnderageFact.htm https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/underage-drinking.htm
