Juvenile Alcoholism

About three million U.S. teens are alcoholics. Ohio State University defines alcoholism as "...often a progressive and fatal, chronic disease...[including]...inability to control drinking, preoccupation with drinking, continued use of alcohol in spite of negative consequences, and denial."

Incidence

• A 2008 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported over 11 million youths between the ages of 12 and 20 drink; some begin at age nine. "Young people who begin drinking before age 15 are four times more likely to develop alcoholism than those who begin drinking at 21," says the Marin Institute.

Warning Signs

• Auto accidents can be a warning sign of juvenile alcoholism.

  A juvenile alcoholic may exhibit changes in behavior and attempt to conceal alcohol use. Concealment signs include use of breath fresheners and sudden claims to need privacy. Changes in friendships, lying, truancy, auto accidents, and bad grades can all indicate alcoholism.

Causes

• Parents who drink are more likely to have kids who drink.

  There are genetic and environmental causes for alcoholism. Children of alcoholic parents are more likely to develop alcohol problems. According to the Texas Youth Commission, 15 to 17 million juveniles in the U.S. live in homes with at least one alcoholic parent. Peer pressure and stress can also lead to alcoholism.

Effects

• Juvenile alcoholics may suffer symptoms of depression.

  Alcohol is a leading cause of death among teens, contributing to motor-vehicle accidents, suicide, date rape and family and social problems.

Treatment

• Treatment may include in-patient rehab or outpatient therapy. Medications may be used to help maintain sobriety. Counseling options include cognitive-behavior therapy, which adjusts thinking and behavior patterns, and group therapies where counselors treat a group of alcoholics who support one another.

Prevention

• Parents can help kids avoid alcohol by keeping the lines of communication open.

  Prevention methods include maintaining an open dialogue with your child and knowledge of his activities.