Young adult alcohol consumption has become increasingly prevalent in today’s youth culture. Despite the legal drinking age being 21 in the United States, many young men and women continue to consume alcohol underage. Unfortunately, with alcohol consumption comes binge drinking and alcoholism. As the social landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to understand the consequences of these behaviors and work toward creating a healthy and informed future for our children.
The Reality of Teen Binge Drinking and Alcoholism
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, approximately 4.2 million young people between the ages of 12 and 20 reported binge drinking in the past month. Binge drinking is defined as consuming five or more alcoholic drinks for males or four or more for females within a two-hour period. This behavior not only puts teens at risk for alcohol-related injuries and health issues; but also, it sets the stage for potential addiction. With the prevalence of social media “trends” that encourage drinking games and glorify being “lit,” the number of youths engaging in binge drinking is rising.
Teen alcoholism is a serious concern for young adults as well, since it can have long-lasting effects on the developing brain. Adolescents who engage in regular binge drinking are more likely to develop alcohol use disorders later in life. Research by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration indicates that 4.5% of adolescents aged 12-17 reported having a substance use disorder in 2019.
Consequences of Alcohol Abuse Among Teens
Alcohol abuse during adolescence can lead to a variety of short-term and long-term consequences, including:
- Impaired brain development: Alcohol can disrupt normal brain development in young adults, which may lead to cognitive deficits and emotional problems later in life.
- Increased risk of injury: Binge drinking can lead to accidents, falls, drownings, and other unintentional injuries due to impaired judgment and coordination.
- Alcohol poisoning: Consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period can lead to alcohol poisoning, which may result in seizures, coma, or even death.
- Mental health issues: Alcohol abuse can exacerbate existing mental health issues or contribute to the development of new ones, such as anxiety and depression.
- Academic and social problems: Alcohol abuse can negatively impact academic performance, social relationships, and the overall quality of one's life.
- Increased risk of addiction: Early use of alcohol as a teen increases the likelihood of developing alcohol use disorders in adulthood.
Causes of Binge Drinking and Alcoholism in Young Adults
There are several factors that contribute to binge drinking and alcoholism among young adults, including:
- Peer Pressure: The desire to fit in and conform to social norms often leads teens to engage in binge drinking, as it is frequently perceived as a rite of passage or a way to bond with friends.
- Stress: College and the transition into adulthood can be incredibly stressful, leading some young adults to use alcohol as a coping mechanism. Negative relationships with family and an unsafe home environment can also be a major cause of stress.
- Accessibility: The availability of alcohol around the house and the prevalence of drinking culture can make it easier for young adults to engage in binge drinking.
- Mental Health Issues: Young adults with mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression, may turn to alcohol as a form of self-medication, which can develop into alcoholism if left unchecked.
Strategies for Prevention and Intervention
To address teen binge drinking and alcoholism, it is important for parents to take a proactive approach. Cultivating an environment of open communication and trust is essential in preventing alcohol abuse and encouraging your child to seek treatment should the problem arise. Informing teens about the risks of alcohol abuse can help them make informed decisions about their own alcohol consumption. Talk with your son or daughter about their alcohol use, establish clear expectations, and provide support for healthy decision-making. Keep an eye on the social circles your kid is involved with. Voice your concern if you feel they are hanging with the wrong crowd but don’t be condescending. Come from a place of love and acceptance while explaining your concern for their health and long-term success. Finally, should the need arise, ensure your teen has access to treatment and support services should they need it. Treatment doesn’t have to be a reactive measure. If you think your son or daughter could be on the cusp of an alcohol use disorder, therapy and intensive outpatient programs can be great proactive steps to take.
What’s Next
Teen binge drinking, alcoholism, and the consequences of alcohol abuse are significant issues that warrant attention from parents. By understanding the risks, promoting prevention strategies, and providing support, you can help reduce the prevalence of alcohol abuse among teens and protect their well-being. As a parent, we all want the best for our kids and it can be difficult to see them struggle. If you feel there is something happening beyond your control, reach out to Momentum Recovery for help. We can help guide you through this difficult time and know what steps to take and when. You and your child are not alone.