Parent's Guide

(Awareness)

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18. Children and Alcohol

Parents who are clear about not wanting their children to use illicit drugs may find it harder to be tough about alcohol. After all, alcohol is legal for adults, many parents drink, and alcohol is a part of some religious observances. As a result, we may view alcohol as a less dangerous substance than other drugs. The facts say otherwise:

  • Hundreds of thousands of teenagers have a drinking problem.

  • A high percentage of high school seniors drink alcohol every day.

  • Alcohol-related accidents are the leading cause of death among young people 15 to 24 years of age.

  • About half of all youthful deaths in drowning, fires, suicide, and homicide are alcohol-related.

  • Young people who use alcohol at an early age are more likely to use alcohol heavily and have alcohol related problems; they are also more likely to abuse other drugs and to get into trouble with the law.

  • Young people whose body weight is lower than adults reach a higher-blood alcohol concentration level than adults and show greater effects for longer periods of time.
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Drugs Desciptions and Effects

Select a drug from the drop down menu to get more information from National Institute on Drug Abuse at drugabuse.gov :