Underage Drinking and Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol is a major concern to young immature teens in Australia. Alcohol is a drug of choice and many young people are experiencing the consequences of drinking. This is a complex issue as it is only illegal in public areas. Parents need to understand and be aware of the facts associated with the abuse of alcohol.

Alcohol use by children, adolescents and young adults under the legal drinking age produces serious tragedies in our society.  Excessive drinking can lead to a wide range of damaging social, personal and health problems. For many children alcohol use begins at a critical time. Many of them lack guidance and direction from their parents which can lead to future alcohol problems. A large number of teens drink under peer pressure from friends or are curious to try it and take inappropriate amounts all at once. Some of the main ways underage teens are supplied with alcohol is by paying their older siblings or parents and getting hold of a fake ID. Underage drinking is now considered as a normal part of growing up in our society, it is shocking to know how often some teens are involved in harmful drinking behaviour.

Alcohol is a depressant that affects individuals differently; therefore it is important for both young people and parents to be aware of some of the facts associated with alcohol abuse. This mainly depends on their physical size and stage of development and how often they drink. Alcohol changes the way the body and mind works. When drinking in large amounts people put themselves at risks of saying or doing regretful things and including themselves in dangerous behavior. Teenage girls can lose control when drinking and have unwanted or unsafe sex, travel with a drunk driver and have conflict with parents. Teenage boys can also have major concerns like an addiction to alcohol, suffering an injury and getting into fights. When alcohol is consumed it enters the blood stream and passes through the liver where it is broken down, the liver cannot handle large amounts at once and this can trigger various. This can also lead to a number of serious health problems.

Underage drinking is a difficult issue to deal with for the government as it is only illegal to drink underage on licensed premises.

When going out it is illegal to drink any alcohol when on L’s or P plates. An important solution to this is to designate a driver, this will not only help the passengers but could stop any future deaths on the road.

Today, alcohol is widely available and aggressively promoted throughout society. Alcohol use continues to be regarded by many people as a normal part of growing up. Yet underage drinking is dangerous, not only for the drinker but also for society. It is so important for parents to discuss with teens the potential risks associated with drinking alcohol.