How Many Teens Drink Alcohol?
Being a teen is an exciting time — experiencing more freedom, learning to drive, making post-graduation plans, and other fun and important milestone. But the pressure to fit in can be immense. Underage drinking may appeal to some teens as a way to fit in or seem ‘cool.’ Social media, movies, and TV can make alcohol seem like a normal part of the teen years, but it’s not.
It may surprise you to learn that the number of teens drinking alcohol is on the decline. That’s right! More and more teens are choosing to avoid underage drinking. This trend not only reflects a change in individual choices but also signifies a broader cultural shift towards healthier living among youth.
Why Teens Drink Alcohol
There are many reasons why teens drink alcohol. Understanding these reasons is crucial to addressing the root causes of underage drinking and preventing it. While every teen is different, some of the most common factors leading to teen alcohol misuse are:
- Peer pressure
- Social acceptance
- Anxiety or stress
- Curiosity
- Media/social media influence
- Desire to feel older and more independent
While these are frequent causes for teens drinking alcohol, the good news is these pressures can easily be countered and prevented. Having honest conversations, early and often, about alcohol and its negative effects on the teenage brain are some of the best ways to prevent underage drinking.
Fostering an open environment where teens feel safe to open up about their experiences and feelings about alcohol can empower them to stand up to peer pressures. Continuing the conversation helps keep teens sober and reduces the overall statistics on underage alcohol consumption.
How Many Teens Drink Alcohol
As we mentioned above, despite what you may think, underage drinking rates are actually on the decline. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) shows a decrease in underage drinking over the last decade. Since 2014, even with population rates increasing, there were 3 million fewer underage drinkers and nearly 2 million fewer binge drinkers among youth ages 12 to 20.
In 2023, the CDC found that 22% of U.S. high schoolers reported drinking alcohol, compared to 35% in 2013. While these numbers show there is still work to be done, it’s positive news that fewer teens overall are drinking alcohol, and that the majority of teens are not drinking alcohol at all. If you want to fit in, the numbers show that not drinking is the way to do it! These statistics underline a promising move towards healthier lifestyle choices among adolescents.
Trends Contributing to the Decline
Several factors contribute to the decline in teen drinking. Adolescents today are more health-conscious and informed about the negative impacts of alcohol (thanks to countless conversations and positive role models!).
In addition, an increased awareness and focus on mental health has likely played a crucial role, with more teens recognizing the long-term dangers of alcohol misuse. Parents and educators continue to play a big part too by initiating conversations about the realities of underage drinking and its consequences.
The Importance of Continuing the Conversation
Despite all the positive data, the work is not done! Teen alcohol misuse rates are decreasing, but that’s because we’re all making the effort. These positive trends highlight the effectiveness of continuous and open communication between teens and adults. Don’t forget that continuing the conversation is just as important as starting the conversation, so make sure you’re maintaining a dialogue about the dangers of alcohol misuse.
Talk It Out NC is ready to help any parent, teen, or mentor tackle these tough conversations and prevent underage drinking. Whether it’s your first time Talking it Out about underage drinking, or one of many continuing conversations, we have help for you.
Get conversation starters, facts about underage drinking, and ideas to Start the Conversation and keep the conversation going on our website.
