Underage alcohol use is the number one substance of concern for Sedro-Woolley RISE because, although most high schoolers don’t use alcohol, it is still the most frequently used substance. However, RISE is also implementing strategies to address marijuana use, nicotine, and opioids. We also focus on primary prevention strategies such as parenting classes, and social-emotional learning.
Although there are always exceptions, most kids who don’t drink in high school become only light drinkers in college (8). Typically, the kids who are the heaviest drinkers in college began drinking at younger ages (such as early teens). In fact, people who start drinking at age 15 or younger more likely to binge drink and are 6 times more likely to become addicted to alcohol
The research is very clear – teens benefit from waiting as long as possible before they start drinking. We also know that teens are less likely to drink when their parents/guardians regularly share their expectations that drinking is not allowed. A review of more than 20 studies found that when parents gave their teens permission to drink, they drank more frequently and
Alcohol affects teens differently than it does adults. Drinking alcohol as teens can have many negative impacts. Teen drinking can: Impair brain development. In fact, the earlier a teen starts drinking, the greater the risk for negative consequences (1). Increase the risk of mental health problems such as depression (2) and anxiety disorders (3). Negatively impact school
Sedro-Woolley Parents RISE is a campaign for parents/guardians of high schoolers in Sedro-Woolley that aims to spread the good news that MOST parents/guardians are setting their teens up for a healthy future and do not allow them to drink alcohol. By strategically sharing this good news, we expect to grow these positive norms - and as a result, reduce underage drinking.
