Alcohol addiction has become a rising concern among experts. But what they are more worried about is the increasing number of alcohol addiction cases among teens. Teens are considered to be a vulnerable age where people get easily influenced by their surroundings. That’s one more reason behind alcohol addiction in teens.
Several other questions are linked to teenage drinking. You can find them in the blog below.
What is alcohol addiction among teens?
Alcohol addiction means developing a dependency on the substance to such an extent that the individual cannot go even a day without drinking. This is a common problem found among teens these days. The reasons behind this could be the negligence behind underage drinking, external factors like their surroundings, or even movies or tv shows promoting underage drinking.
What are the side effects of alcohol in teens?
Alcohol is a very harmful substance and therefore should only be consumed in a controlled amount. Prolonged use of alcohol can the following side effects on teens:
- Slow breathing
- Vomiting and nausea
- Slurred speech
- Altered mood
- Impaired judgment
- Memory problems
If these side effects are overlooked, the situation can worsen and lead to the following long-term health effects:
- Cancer
- Social and family problems
- Depression and anxiety
- Issues with learning
- Weakened immune system
- High blood pressure
What are the effects of alcohol on a teen’s brain?
The brain is the most sensitive part of a teen’s body as it is at a developmental stage. However, consumption of alcohol at this age hinders brain development and leads to the following consequences:
- Reduced awareness to sense danger
- Impaired motor skills
- Poor decision-making
These are short-term consequences. However, if the teens do not stop alcohol consumption on time, they are likely to face serious developmental issues with the brain. Their brain can even be damaged permanently.
Therefore, it is necessary to seek professional help and overcome alcohol addiction on time. If you know a teen addicted to alcohol, advise them to consult our professionals at Skyward Treatment. Contact our team today for more information.