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Early Intervention Is Important: Know the warning signs of underage alcohol
use.
By Dr. Elizabeth Wise
Underage drinking causes
problems—this is not news to anyone. However, some of the statistics are pretty
startling.
Nationwide, drinking kills six and a half times more young people than all other
illicit drug use combined, mainly through motor vehicle and other accidents,
homicide and suicide. Youth who drink
are also more likely to engage in sexual activity--twice as likely for children
under fourteen years old who drink. Further, starting drinking early correlates
with a markedly higher risk of ongoing problems with alcohol as adults--five
times higher for those who start under fifteen years old than those who start
after 21.
Prevention coupled with
early recognition and intervention for teen and preteen drinkers can have major
long-term benefits.
In the local 2006 Healthy
Youth Survey, only one in 100 sixth graders reported drinking 3 or more days in
the previous month, rising to one in ten 8th graders and one in five 10th and 12th
graders. And as our children age, those
who do drink, drink more heavily--one in ten 8th grade drinkers binge (defined
as five or more drinks in a row); compared to one in four 10th and 12th grade drinkers.
Intervention to help youth
using alcohol change their behavior starts with recognition that they are
drinking.
Apart from obvious tip-offs
like bottles in the backpack or the bedroom, you may see physical changes of
intoxication--lack of coordination, slurred speech, low energy, bloodshot eyes.
New use of mouthwash or breath mints may be to mask the odor of alcohol.
Mental changes may include
memory lapses or poor concentration, perhaps with falling grades. Mood indicators may include irritability and
defensiveness. Change in friends,
perhaps with reluctance to have their parents get to know their new friends,
discipline problems at school, lack of involvement in former interests,
rebellion against family rules, and less attention to personal hygiene--these
all may be just part of being a teenager, but may also be signs of problem
alcohol use.
If we don't notice, we can't
intervene. Be a good role model. Keep involved in your kid's life, and keep
your kid involved in healthy activities. If you do see warning signs, talk to your
child, and know that help is available.
Dr. Elizabeth Wise has been
practicing family medicine in Cle Elum since
1981. With her husband, Jock Young, she has raised three children.
The Kittitas County
Community Network/Drug Free Communities Coalition and the Community Network
agency, through a federal Drug Free Communities grant, are implementing the
“Start Talking Before They Start Drinking” campaign as
a community service for parents. For
more information on the campaign, go to www.kccn-dfc.com.
