Spring is a season of celebration - the weather turns warmer and happy times abound with prom, outdoor barbecues, and graduation parties to look forward to! Unfortunately, sometimes these happy occasions also involve underage drinking. In fact, research shows that the months of April, May, and June can be the most dangerous time for teens.
Teens may mistakenly believe that drinking is not as dangerous as other drug use, but statistics prove overwise. Scientific research indicates that the teen brain is still developing into the mid-20s - researchers have found that the introduction of alcohol and other substances, particularly in large quantities consumed during binge drinking, may impair brain development and have long term consequences. It is more important than ever that adults be firm, clear, and consistent when talking with teens about alcohol.
Drinking is not only harmful for individuals, it also has a negative impact on society causing vehicle accidents, DUI's, injuries, violence, sexual assault, and property destruction. Next time you hear someone trying to justify drinking, remember how deadly alcohol can be.
We wish you happy and joyful spring celebrations - celebrating safely. But, if you find that you or someone you love has a drinking problem, help is available. Learning about options to address alcohol problems can be an important first step. Contact your medical provider, health insurance, local health department, or employee assistance program.
To find research-based information on drinking and its impact on health, visit the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) at:
