Alcohol Addiction in Teens: A Complete Guide

-Dr. Sarah Johnson, Director of Substance Abuse Prevention, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

An overview of the Issue: 

Developing a problem with alcohol is risky during the teenage years due to peer pressure, underlying genetics, mental health problems and other heightened risk factors. Around 15% of teens 12 to 20 years old meet the criteria for having an alcohol problem.

The risks of alcohol abuse are extremely documented and can cause long lasting side effects on the brain and body. At Clearfork Academy, we address the unique needs of your teen and provide around-the-clock care to help teens with alcohol addiction.

Our programs are rooted in evidence-based therapies and recreational activities to support long-term recovery and help your teen live a sober life.

What is Teenage Alcoholism? 

While it is normal for teens to experiment with alcohol, teenage alcoholism is frequent and excessive drinking. Teens struggle with alcohol abuse due social or academic pressure, growing up around alcoholics, trauma, or underlying mental health problems. 

Many teens also engage in alcohol consumption to cope with stress or emotional difficulties. Alcohol abuse in teenagers can manifest in different ways. Binge drinking is common and involves consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period. 

This can be dangerous, leading to alcohol poisoning, impaired judgment, and increasing the likelihood of accidents or injuries.

Recognizing the Signs

It is important for parents to be mindful if their teen is showing signs that could indicate alcohol abuse. The quicker parents can recognize red flags, the quicker they can intervene to get them proper treatment. Signs your teen may have a problem with alcohol consumption include: 

• Slow or slurred speech
• Fatigue
• Bloodshot eyes
• Decreased academic performance or skipping school 
• Isolation
• Smell of alcohol on breath
• Aggression
• Nausea, headaches or other physical symptoms of a hangover.

Effects of Teenage Drinking on The Body 

Adolescence is a sensitive period of growth for teens. They are going through a number of biological changes, while also exploring their identity. Alcohol can disrupt brain development, personality development and mess with hormones. 

This can lead to a variety of physical problems including: 

• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Cardiovascular disease
• Increased blood pressure
• Oral cancer
• Inflammation 

At Clearfork we understand how destructive a drinking habit can be to teens and their growing bodies. 

Alcohol and Liver Disease

The liver is the main organ that is affected when drinking alcohol. It cleanses the blood and processes chemicals, such as alcohol. Long-term alcoholics often develop inflammation and sometimes cirrhosis of the liver which is a deadly disease. Getting your teen the support they need early on can help them prevent health problems as adults. 

Alcohol and The Teenage Brain

The teenage brain is still forming and changing rapidly during these years. Drinking alcohol can stunt a teen’s maturing brain and prefrontal cortex. This can lead to problems with emotional regulation, making decisions, impulse control, and concentration. 

Alcohol can cause problems in the brain such as memory loss, problems focusing, socializing or problem-solving. It can also strain relationships, and cause bad judgment and poor academic performance. 

During adolescence, new connections in the brain are being formed. Alcohol disrupts these connections and it can lead to risk of developing anger problems, aggression, depression or anxiety.  

Increased use of alcohol can also change the way the reward system processes dopamine. This makes teens who drink more prone to developing drug or alcohol addiction later in adulthood. 

Factors Contributing to Alcohol Abuse in Teens

Understanding the factors that contribute to the problem of teen alcohol abuse is crucial in developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. 

Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is one of the most common factors leading to alcohol abuse in teenagers. Adolescents often face immense pressure to fit in and conform to social norms. They may be influenced by their peers who encourage or pressure them to engage in risky behaviors, including alcohol consumption. 

For instance, a teenager might feel compelled to drink at a party to avoid feeling left out or being seen as uncool by their friends.

Family Environment

The family environment plays a crucial role in shaping a teenager’s attitudes and behaviors toward alcohol. Teens who grow up in households where alcohol abuse is prevalent are at a higher risk of developing similar patterns. 

Family members who model excessive alcohol consumption or exhibit dysfunctional behaviors associated with alcohol abuse create an environment where teens may perceive alcohol as a normative coping mechanism. 

For example, if a teenager witnesses their parents using alcohol as a way to deal with stress, they may imitate this behavior.

Media Influence

The media, including television, movies, music, and social media, often glamorizes alcohol consumption. Teenagers are constantly exposed to images and messages that associate alcohol with popularity, success, and fun. These portrayals can influence their attitudes and beliefs about drinking. 

For instance, a teenager who repeatedly sees their favorite celebrities or influencers drinking in their social media feeds might develop a perception that alcohol is an integral part of a desirable lifestyle.

Psychological Factors

Teenagers may turn to alcohol as a way to cope with various psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Alcohol can provide temporary relief or escape from emotional difficulties, leading to its misuse as a form of self-medication. 

For example, a teenager experiencing high levels of stress due to academic pressure may resort to alcohol as a means of relaxation or escapism.

Accessibility and Availability

Easy access to alcohol significantly contributes to its abuse among teenagers. Factors such as lax enforcement of age restrictions, inadequate parental supervision, or older friends who can purchase alcohol for them can all contribute to increased accessibility. 

Moreover, the availability of alcohol in social settings, parties, and even within the home environment can make it more tempting and easier for teenagers to experiment with or consume alcohol.

Lack of Education and Awareness

Insufficient education and awareness about the risks and consequences of alcohol abuse can contribute to the problem among teenagers. If adolescents are not adequately informed about the negative effects of alcohol on their physical and mental health, they may underestimate the potential harm and engage in risky behaviors. 

For example, a teenager who is unaware of the long-term consequences of heavy drinking may engage in binge drinking without fully understanding the associated risks.

Treatment for Teenage Alcoholism: What to Expect 

Treatment at Clearfork consists of a residential treatment program that is structured to provide 24/7 care and supervision. For teens suffering from alcohol abuse, detox will most likely be necessary, we can provide medication to reduce cravings and help with withdrawal pain.  

Teens will be enrolled in a number of different therapies and recreational activities to support their sobriety. These are designed to help your teen get clean, boost emotional wellness and address any underlying mental health problems. 

Types of Treatment  

Our treatment programs at Clearfork are tailored to address the unique mental health needs that could be influencing their problem with alcohol. However, there are some general programs and activities your teen can expect during their stay.

• Individual therapy: Clearfork has medical therapists licensed in CBT, DBT and other forms of psychotherapy to address underlying mental health problems. Sessions can be daily or 2-3x per week. Your teen will learn to understand what drives their drinking habits, set goals and build healthy coping strategies to deal with stress. 
• Support groups: These are a great way for teens to connect with others who have similar problems. It helps them build empathy, problem solving skills and share insights to develop new coping strategies. 
• Medication: Under supervision, medication may be provided to manage symptoms of cravings or withdrawal pain. Medication may also be used to treat underlying mental health problems. 
• Physical activities: Recreational activities include sports, yoga, dance, or hiking. They can be great in the recovery from alcohol abuse to reduce cravings and teach teens new outlets of stress. 
• Life skills: Clearfork helps build life skills that teens can use for their long-term recovery. These may include communication, time management, confidence, emotional regulation, problem solving and more to help their personal growth. 
• Art therapy: Creative therapies can be a great outlet for stress and teach teens to process their feelings and boost emotional wellness.  

Prevention Strategies for Parents and Guardians

An important part of your parental role is implementing prevention strategies to reduce the likelihood of your teen abusing alcohol, or addressing it if you suspect they are.

Open Communication

Use the following guidelines to promote effective parent-child communication about alcohol and substance use.

• Establish an Open and Supportive Environment: Create an atmosphere of trust and understanding where children feel comfortable discussing alcohol and substance use. Encourage open dialogue without fear of judgment or punishment.
• Active Listening: Practice active listening by giving your full attention to your child when they want to talk about alcohol or substance use. Maintain eye contact, nod, and show empathy to let them know you value their thoughts and feelings.
• Use Non-Judgmental Language: Avoid using accusatory or judgmental language when discussing alcohol and substance use. Instead, focus on understanding their perspective and offering guidance and support.
• Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the risks and consequences associated with alcohol and substance use. This will help you provide accurate information to your child and address any misconceptions they may have.
• Encourage Questions: Encourage your teen to ask questions about alcohol and substance use. Provide honest and age-appropriate answers, ensuring they have a clear understanding of the potential risks and effects.
• Set Clear Expectations: Establish clear rules and expectations regarding alcohol and substance use. Clearly communicate your values and family guidelines, and explain the reasons behind these rules.

Guidance on Starting Conversations and Maintaining Trust

When it comes to addressing alcohol abuse in teenagers, open communication and trust are essential. Here are some ways parents can offer guidance on starting conversations and maintaining trust with their teens:

• Create a Safe and Non-Judgmental Environment: Establish an atmosphere where your teen feels comfortable talking about sensitive topics without fear of criticism or punishment. Assure them that your primary concern is their well-being and that you are there to support them.
• Choose The Right Time and Place: Find a suitable time and place for having a conversation. Avoid situations where either of you might be rushed or distracted. Consider a neutral and private setting where your teen feels at ease.
• Use Active Listening: Show genuine interest in what your teen has to say. Practice active listening by giving them your full attention, maintaining eye contact, and reflecting back on their feelings to ensure you understand them correctly. Avoid interrupting or jumping to conclusions.
• Be Non-Confrontational: Approach the conversation with empathy and understanding rather than blame or anger. Use “I” statements to express your concerns, such as “I’ve noticed some changes that worry me,” instead of accusing or criticizing them. Focus on their behavior and the impact it has on their well-being.

Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries

Discuss the Importance of Establishing Rules and Consequences: Establishing rules and consequences is crucial when dealing with teens suffering from alcohol abuse. It helps create a structured environment that promotes accountability, safety, and support for the teenager’s well-being. 

• Safety and Health: Alcohol abuse can have severe physical and mental health consequences, particularly for teenagers whose bodies and brains are still developing. Establishing rules helps ensure the safety and well-being of the teenager by reducing the likelihood of risky behaviors and potential harm associated with alcohol consumption.
• Boundaries and Structure: Adolescents often thrive in environments with clear boundaries and structure. By setting rules around alcohol use, parents can establish guidelines that communicate their expectations and create a sense of predictability and stability for their teenager. This can help them develop self-discipline, self-control, and responsible decision-making skills.
• Prevention and Intervention: Establishing rules and consequences can serve as a preventive measure to discourage alcohol abuse in the first place. It sends a clear message to the teenager that their parents are concerned about their well-being and will not tolerate risky behaviors. Additionally, having consequences in place helps intervene if the teenager violates the rules, allowing for early intervention and necessary support.
• Education and Awareness: Rules around alcohol use can provide an opportunity for parents to educate their teens about the risks and consequences associated with alcohol abuse. Parents can share factual information, engage in open discussions, and address any misconceptions their teenager may have. This promotes awareness and helps the teenager make informed decisions about their health.
• Accountability and Responsibility: Establishing consequences for breaking the rules reinforces the importance of accountability and responsibility. It teaches the teenager that actions have consequences and encourages them to take ownership of their choices. Through this process, they can learn the value of making responsible decisions and understand the impact of their actions on themselves and others.

Seeking Professional Help

If you identify warning signs of a substance abuse problem in your teen, it’s important to reach out for professional support to help find the best plan of treatment. 

At Clearfork Academy our team of compassionate, licensed therapists understands the complex nature of alcohol addiction in teens. Reach out to our Admissions team to learn more. 

Sources 

Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility. Underage Drinking Statistics. (n.d.)