So what’s the big deal, anyway?
In the United States, 70.8% of all deaths among youth and young adults aged 10-24 result from only four causes: motor vehicle crashes (32.3%), other unintentional injuries (11.7%), homicides (15.1%), and suicides (11.7%).
30% of all students nationwide had ridden in a car or other vehicle one or more times during the last 30 days with a driver who had been drinking alcohol (YRBSS, 2004).
20% of 12th graders nationwide have driven after drinking alcohol (YRBSS, 2004)
The prevalence of current marijuana use was 24% among 11th graders and 26% among 12th graders.
A recent survey reports that during the past 30 days, 47% of adolescents age 10-24 reported drinking. And 30% reported binge drinking. Drug and alcohol use by teens increases the risk of addiction and can change the developing brain for life.
If you think there is a problem, there probably is. But as a parent/caregiver, you can and do make a difference. Know the signs and symptoms, talk to your child, and seek professional help now.