Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Visit the New NIAAA “Facts About Teen Drinking” Website

 


Adolescents typically have a desire to experience new things, but experimenting with alcohol is not a good idea. While research shows that underage drinking rates are declining, teens must know the facts on how alcohol can affect their health, how to recognize signs of a drinking problem, and where to find help.

The National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse has recently launched a new webpage for teens called Facts About Teen Drinking. This resource for youth offers updated research-based information on underage drinking with sections including:

Alcohol and Your Health focuses on the effects that alcohol can have on the body now and in the future covering topics such as poor decisions and risky behaviors, blackouts, the brain and mental health. Binge drinking may lead to injury and other negative consequences. It can also lead to alcohol use disorder, disease, and health problems.

Signs of a Problem shares how to recognize early warning signs of an alcohol problem – some symptoms of which can overlap with what may be considered normal teen behavior. Drinking at a young age can cause serious health consequences. It is helpful to know where and how to access trusted resources available to help anyone who is worried about themselves, or a friend or family member who drinks.

Getting Help provides information about who to talk to about getting help for an alcohol-related problem, what to do in case of overdose (alcohol poisoning), and where to find treatment and support resources especially for teens. Adolescents need to build different skills and coping strategies than adults. There are many treatment options available and the earlier you seek help, the better.

The best way to reduce the risk of problems is not to drink. But for some, this may not be the reality so it is crucial that teens know the facts to make informed decisions. Encourage your teens to learn how alcohol can affect their health, how to recognize signs of a drinking problem, and where to find help - visit Facts About Teen Drinking 



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