Teen Alcoholism #2

Yonka Angelova, Reporter

Teen Alcoholism has become widespread and is increasing over time. According to National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism,”In 2009, about 10.4 million young people between ages 12 and 20 drank more than ‘just a few sips of alcohol. As kids get older, they drink more. By age 15, half of teens have had at least one drink. By age 18, more than 70% of teens have had at least one drink.” Not only does this show that teenagers are beginning to drink at a young age, but their drinking increases as they get older.

There are 5 stages of Teen Alcoholism. Stage 1 is accessing alcohol rather than using it. Stage 2 ranges from experimentation or occasional use to regular weekly use. Stage 3 is increasing the use of alcohol to drinking on a regular basis. Stage 4 is developing problems in their social, educational, or family life as a result of drinking on a regular basis. Stage 5 is not being able to feel normal without drinking. In this stage, risk-taking behaviors like engaging in physical fights, or driving under the influence of alcohol increase.

http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/special-populations-co-occurring-disorders/underage-drinking

http://www.medicinenet.com/alcohol_and_teens/page3.htm#what_is_alcoholism