According to the 2018 Oklahoma Prevention Needs Assessment, about two-thirds of children reported that they have not talked with their parents about the dangers of alcohol and other drug use and they do not perceive drugs to be risky, making them more likely to being using alcohol and other drugs. Underage drinking is associated with various negative consequences for children and can affect and endanger the lives of those around them. Children who drink alcohol are more likely to:
- Use other drugs such as marijuana and cocaine
- Get bad grades in school
- Make poor decisions in risky behavior
- Have mental health issues such as depression and anxiety disorders
Source: https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/consequences-of_underage_0.pdf
To learn more on how to talk with your child about the dangers of underage drinking, visit https://www.samhsa.gov/underage-drinking.
For 24/7 free and confidential information and treatment referrals, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit the SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator at findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
