Alcohol is a depressant that comes from organic sources including grapes, grains and berries. These are fermented or are distilled into a liquid.

Alcohol affects every part of the body. It is carried through the bloodstream to the brain, stomach, internal organs, liver, kidneys, muscles--everywhere. It is absorbed very quickly (as short as 5-10 minutes) and can stay in the body for several hours.

Alcohol affects the central nervous system and brain. It can make users loosen up, relax, and feel more comfortable or can make them more aggressive. Unfortunately, it also lowers their inhibitions, which can set them up for dangerous or embarrassing behavior. Alcohol is a drug and is only legal for people over the age 21. Standard drink is:

One 12-ounce bottle of beer or wine cooler
One 5-ounce glass of wine
1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.

Health Hazards

• People who begin drinking before the age of 15 are four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence than those who wait until age 21. Each additional year of delayed drinking onset reduces the probability of alcohol dependence by 14 percent.
• Adolescents who drink heavily assume the same long-term health risks as adults who drink heavily. This means they are at increased risk of developing cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, hemorrhagic stroke, and certain forms of cancer.
• Adolescents who use alcohol are more likely to become sexually active, which places them at greater risk of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases.
• One study showed that students diagnosed with alcohol abuse were four times more likely to experience major depression than those without an alcohol problem.
• Alcohol use among adolescents has been associated with considering planning, attempting, and completing suicide.

Source: The National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign

Relevant Links

Alcohol Research Group - National Alcohol Research Center
Alcohol Studies Database - Rutgers University
Center on Alcohol Marketing and Youth (CAMY)
Connecticut Coaliton to Stop Underage Drinking
International Institute for Alcohol Awareness
MedLine Plus - Alcohol Consumption
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
National Commission Against Drunk Driving
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
The Marin Institute
Underage Drinking Enforcement Training Center