Warning Signs of Underage Drinking
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) provides the following information on signs of teen alcohol use/abuse.
Adolescence is a time of change and growth, including behavior changes. These changes usually are a normal part of growing up but sometimes can point to an alcohol problem. Parents and teachers should pay close attention to the following warning signs that may indicate underage drinking:
- Changes in mood, including anger and irritability
- Academic and/or behavioral problems in school
- Rebelliousness
- Changing groups of friends
- Low energy level
- Less interest in activities and/or care in appearance
- Finding alcohol among a young person’s things
- Smelling alcohol on a young person’s breath
- Problems concentrating and/or remembering
- Slurred speech
- Coordination problems
Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Underage Drinking Facts
