Introdution

This presentation is about the Alcohol Abuse in Adolescence.

For better comprehension of this theme, it is explained what is Alcoholism,

Adolescence; The effects of alcohol abuse in adolescence; Risks and
possible causes; Symptoms of teenager alcohol abuse ; Treatments and
prevention.
Alcoholism
is a kind of substance (Alcohol) abuse that inculcates feeling of low self
esteem, withdrawal, perverse thoughts, and depressive feelings in a sufferer
and is often characterized by sudden bout of violence.
Often, if alcohol has worked its way across the blood-brain barrier, then a
sufferer also starts thoughts of suicide.
Adolescence
Teenagers are from about the age of eleven to the late teen years.
It is a period of powerful transition and change when children develop adult
characteristics. It is a time of awakening, of new beginnings, unparalleled
growth and emotional volatility.
They may be caught in difficult transitions by psychological, physical, and
mental challenges that make competing in the adult world difficult and
discouraging.
Adolescence and Alcoholism:
The nature of teens as developing adults and the reasons why they are at
higher risk for alcohol abuse and addiction.

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©uring adolescence the brain undergoes a lot of changes. As it is still
developing, it is more sensitive to alcohol;
Alcohol decreases teens' ability to pay attention.
Teens who have experienced alcohol withdrawal tend to have difficulties
with memory.
In contrast to adults, teens tend to abuse alcohol with other
substances/drugs;
The younger a person is when they begin drinking, the more likely they are
to develop a problem with alcohol.
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Family risk factors:
- low levels of parent supervision or communication,
-family conflicts,
- inconsistent or severe parental discipline
- family history of alcohol or drug abuse.

Individual risk factors:

-problems managing impulses,
- emotional instability,
- thrill-seeking behaviors, and
- perceiving the risk of using alcohol to be low.


  
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Some of the most common symptoms of alcohol abuse in teenagers include:
-lying,
- making excuses,
- breaking curfew,
- staying in their room,
- becoming verbally or physically abusive toward others,
- having items in their possession that are connected to alcohol use
- the smell of alcohol on their breath or body,
- mood swings,
- stealing,
- changes in friends.
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The treatment for teenager alcoholism is very complex.

Probably some medication will be prescribed, but it mainly requires

psychological therapy, both individual and in groups.

It is also expected parents to be included in the treatment.

In severe cases residential treatment is advised (at home or specialized centres)

For first stage of alcohol use (having access, but not having yet used alcohol),
preventive measures must be used.
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Family, specially the parents, is very important for preventing alcoholism in
adolescence.
There has to be an open communication;
Children must be helped to develop strong sense of self-esteem, letting
them know they are loved and valued.
They must know family is aware of alcohol use in the school community,
and must reminded about the dangers of alcohol.
The more teen is willing to talk about alcohol, the better the chances that
he or she will not drink.
Above all, parents should set a good example.