According to the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Underage drinking poses a range of risks and negative consequences. It is dangerous because it:
Causes many deaths. Alcohol is a significant factor in the deaths of people younger than age 21 in the United States each year. This includes deaths from motor vehicle crashes, homicides, alcohol overdoses, falls, burns, drowning, and suicides.
Causes many injuries. Drinking alcohol can cause youth to have accidents and get hurt. In 2011 alone, about 188,000 people younger than age 21 visited an emergency room for alcohol-related injuries.10
Impairs judgment. Drinking can lead to poor decisions about taking risks, including unsafe sexual behavior, drinking and driving, and aggressive or violent behavior.
Increases the risk of physical and sexual assault. Underage binge drinking is associated with an increased likelihood of being the victim or perpetrator of interpersonal violence.11
Can lead to other problems. Drinking may cause youth to have trouble in school or with the law. Drinking alcohol is also associated with the use of other substances.
Increases the risk of alcohol problems later in life. Research shows that people who start drinking before the age of 15 are at a higher risk for developing alcohol use disorder (AUD) later in life. For example, adults ages 26 and older who began drinking before age 15 are 3.6 times more likely to report having AUD in the past year than those who waited until age 21 or later to begin drinking.12
Interferes with brain development. Research shows that people’s brains keep developing well into their 20s. Alcohol can alter this development, potentially affecting both brain structure and function. This may cause cognitive or learning problems as well as may increase vulnerability for AUD, especially when people start drinking at a young age and drink heavily.
Why Do So Many Youth Drink?
As children mature, it is natural for them to assert their independence, seek new challenges, and engage in risky behavior. Underage drinking is one such behavior that attracts many adolescents. They may want to try alcohol, but often do not fully recognize its effects on their health and behavior. Other reasons youth drink alcohol include:
- Peer pressure
- Increased independence or the desire for it
- Stress
For more information, please visit: niaaa.nih.gov
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Today, Garrett County Public Schools proudly celebrates the incredible administrative professionals who keep our schools running smoothly every single day. From answering phones and organizing schedules to supporting staff, students, and families, your dedication does not go unnoticed.
💼📚💙 Thank you for being the heart of our offices and the glue that holds us together. We appreciate all that you do!
#AdministrativeProfessionalsDay #ThankYou #GCPSMD #GCPSProud #BehindTheScenesHeroes
