#DYK | Your brain doesn’t stop developing until you’re 25 years old!
Underage alcohol use can impair the development of the parts of your brain that control memory, emotional regulation, learning, and decision making.
Myth
There is no reason to wait until you’re 21 to drink alcohol.
➥
Fact
People who begin drinking before age 15 are 3.5 times more likely to develop a drinking problem at some point in their lives than those who begin drinking at age 21 or older.
Myth
Drinking alcohol isn’t as risky as other drugs.
➥
Fact
Drinking alcohol can cause you to make poor decisions and engage in risky/harmful behavior that can result in a variety of serious consequences such as injuries, sexual assault, legal trouble, and even death.
Myth
You need to drink alcohol in order to fit in.
➥
Fact
Research shows that the majority of young people don’t drink alcohol! Besides, drinking alcohol can make you puke, stumble around, or pass out. That’s not definitely not going to help you fit in with your peers.
If you see someone who may be overdosing on drugs, immediately call 911!
Remember Good Samaritan Law
Don’t be afraid to call 911 if you’re at a party where drugs are present, and/or you are under the influence of drugs. You cannot get in trouble because you are protected by the Good Samaritan Law. The Good Samaritan Law allows people to call 911 to get help for others who are overdosing without fear of being arrested for having or using drugs.
Learn More
Taking chances isn’t always bad—it’s part of growing up. But not thinking through consequences can be dangerous when it comes to decisions about drugs and alcohol. Find out how any drug use negatively affects the teen brain.
Parents learn more at TalkNowAZ.com
Binge Drinking
When young people drink, they drink a lot at one time. On average, young people have about 5 drinks on a single occasion. This is called binge drinking, a very dangerous way of drinking that can lead to serious problems and even death.
Sources: NIDA, CDC, SAMHSA