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Alcohol is one of many drugs, but it is the number one choice for adolescents. Alcohol is used heavily and more frequently than any other drug such as cocaine or marijuana. Parents may feel relieved their teen is only drinking, but alcohol is a powerful and mood-altering drug and can cause many problems. There are several prevention methods that can be used to deter adolescents from consuming alcohol. There are only a few methods of treatment for problem drinkers and alcoholic adolescents in Vermont.

The adolescent's body is not fully developed, so drinking alcohol can have several negative affects. Adolescents lack the skills to cope with alcohol wisely, and their bodies are not developed enough to take on the unpredictable changes that occur while drinking alcohol. The use of alcohol in adolescents should be put off until they are adults and their bodies and brains are fully developed (Alcoholism).

Many adolescents are unaware that drinking alcohol can affect the way they develop. It can also affect the way they think and react to the effects of alcohol. Heavy alcohol use can impair brain function and may cause irreversible damage. Alcohol related traffic accidents are a major cause of death and disability in adolescents. The use of alcohol in adolescence is also linked to drowning deaths, death in a fire, suicide and homicide (Teen Alcoholism).

Teens using alcohol are more likely to become sexually active at an earlier age, participate in sexual intercourse more often, and have unprotected sex more than teens that do not drink (Kid's Health).
Young people who drink are at a higher risk than others to be victims of
violent crime, including rape, aggravated assault, and robbery.

Teens using alcohol are more likely to have problems with school work
and school conduct.

An individual who begins drinking as a young teen is four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence than someone who waits until
Adulthood.
A drinking problem is more likely if you notice several of these signs at the same time, if they occur suddenly, and if some of them are extreme in nature:
Mood changes: flare-ups of temper, irritability and defensiveness
School problems, including poor attendance, low grades, and/or recent disciplinary action
Rebelling against family rules
Switching friends, along with a reluctance to have you get to know the new friends
A "nothing matters" attitude, for example sloppy appearance, a lack of involvement in former interests and general low energy
Finding

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