Alcohol

Alcohol is the most widely used substance among adults and teens. Underage drinking carries serious risks, including injuries, violence, and even death. The good news is 79.8% of teens believe drinking is a risk and harmful, which makes them less likely to drink.

The teen brain is especially vulnerable to alcohol’s effects, as development continues until around age 25. Drinking during this period can interfere with brain structure and function, increasing the likelihood of alcohol-related problems later in life. Studies show that individuals who begin drinking before age 15 are six times more likely to develop alcohol dependence.

Binge Drinking

Binge drinking—defined as consuming more than 4 drinks for women or more than 5 drinks for men in a short period—is common among teens and young adults, leading to serious consequences. Most (90%) East Windsor teens are not engaging in binge drinking, which is great!

Risks Associated with Binge Drinking:

Acute Health Risks: Rapid intoxication can result in alcohol poisoning, a potentially fatal condition.
Impaired Judgment & Coordination: Alcohol affects reaction time and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents and risky behaviors like drunk driving.
Increased Risk of Accidents: Binge drinking is linked to falls, burns, drownings, and motor vehicle crashes.
Negative Mental Health Effects: Excessive drinking can worsen anxiety, depression, aggression, and impaired decision-making.
Long-Term Health Consequences: Chronic binge drinking can contribute to liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, neurological disorders, and certain cancers.
Social & Legal Consequences: Binge drinking can lead to relationship strain, academic or work difficulties, legal issues, and DUI charges.

Risk of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): Frequent binge drinking increases the likelihood of developing AUD, a chronic condition marked by an inability to control alcohol consumption despite its negative effects.

What Is a Standard Drink?

In the U.S., a standard drink contains about 14 grams (0.6 ounces) of pure alcohol, roughly equivalent to:

12 oz beer (~5% alcohol)
5 oz wine (~12% alcohol)
1.5 oz liquor (~40% alcohol) Cocktails and mixed drinks often contain multiple servings of alcohol, making it essential to track consumption.

The Social Host Law

Under Connecticut’s Social Host Law, property owners are responsible for any underage drinking on their property, regardless of whether they were aware of it. Allowing teens to drink in your home can lead to:

A $2,000 fine
Criminal charges
Jail time. This law also applies to underage cannabis use. Learn more: Connecticut Social Host Law

What Parents & Caregivers Can Do

Lock Your Liquor! Of the Bolton teens who reported drinking alcohol, 2 out of 5 teens got it from their home.
Start the conversation early and talk often about the dangers of underage drinking. Get tips: SAMHSA’s Parent Resources
Model responsible alcohol use by demonstrating healthy coping skills instead of turning to alcohol.
Set clear expectations—teens are less likely to drink when they know their parents disapprove.
Know where your kids are and who they are with to help reduce risk.

Signs of Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)

Alcohol Use Disorder is diagnosed when two or more of the following occur within 12 months:

Drinking more or for a longer period than intended.
Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control alcohol use.
Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol.
Strong cravings for alcohol.
Alcohol use interferes with work, school, or home responsibilities.
Continued use despite social or interpersonal problems.
Reduced participation in important activities due to alcohol use.
Drinking in physically hazardous situations.
Continued use despite physical or psychological harm.
Needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect.

(Source: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5)