From a medical perspective, there are a few reasons why it’s unhealthy for teenagers to drink. The biggest factor is brain development. Your brain will continue to grow until you are 25. We also know that consuming large amounts of alcohol when you are younger can impact that developing brain and potentially cause learning issues later in life. Starting to use heavy amounts of alcohol at a young age can also make it more likely that you develop a dependency or unhealthy drinking habits later in life. Lastly, consuming alcohol can put you at risk for physical or sexual violence. Physical violence results from reduced impulse control or judgement while sexual violence can result from reduced control over your body (even to the point of blacking out), and sexual predators might take advantage.

It’s worth mentioning that plenty of teenagers don’t drink at all! Around 60% of teens admit to ever having a drink but much less do so on a regular basis. If you do choose to drink, please do so safely. Do not drive or get in a car operated by someone who has been drinking.