substance and addiction prevention branch

Underage Drinking

Alcohol is the most common drug used by people under the legal drinking age of 21. Youth who drink alcohol are at higher risk of developing Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). In addition to the immediate health effects of alcohol, youth may experience effects on growth and brain development. The human brain continues to develop and mature into the mid-twenties. Alcohol is especially harmful for developing brains.

Youth who drink alcohol are more likely to experience:

Academic, Legal, and Social Issues

School absences
Lower grades
Disciplinary issues
Drinking and driving
Impaired judgement
Misusing other drugs (there is an increased risk of serious health effects when mixing alcohol with other drugs)

Other Health Impacts and Risks

Depression and anxiety disorders
Impulse control
Alcohol-related blackouts (memory impairment)
Injuries, including burns, falls, and drownings
Sexually transmitted infections
Unplanned pregnancy

The risk of experiencing these problems is greater for youth who binge drink (4 or more drinks on an occasion for females & 5 or more drinks for males) when compared to youth who do not binge drink.

Preventing Underage Drinking

Parents, guardians, and other trusted adults can empower youth to make healthy choices by building trust on the topic of alcohol, having frequent conversations, and modeling healthy behaviors.

How can I help my child avoid alcohol-related problems?

Talk early and often about alcohol, its health impacts and why it's only for adults aged 21 and over.
Set a good example by not binge drinking or heavy drinking, if you choose to drink.
Send a clear message that underage drinking is not allowed. Never provide alcohol to anyone under 21.
Be approachable so youth can come to you with questions.
Be judgement-free if youth share about using substances.
Keep conversations light by avoiding scare tactics and lectures.
Provide tools to empower youth to avoid peer pressure.

Pay close attention to these signs, especially if there are several at the same time. Some of these signs may be due to other challenges that require conversation and support, and some may reflect normal youth behavior.

What are potential signs my child may be drinking?

Flare-ups of temper, irritability, or defensiveness.
Bloodshot eyes, lack of coordination, sudden weight loss, unexplained injuries.
Memory lapses, poor concentration, or slurred speech.
“Negligent" appearance, a lack of involvement in former interests, or low energy.
Irregular attendance, low grades, or disciplinary issues.
Switching friends and refusing to introduce new friends to you.
Finding alcohol in a youth's room or backpack, smelling alcohol on their breath.
Breaking family rules.

If you suspect underage drinking or using other substances, it is important to address the matter right away and with care. It's never too soon to start talking with youth about healthy behaviors.

Parent Talking With Child

Resources for parents, guardians, or caregivers:

Preventing Underage Drinking: A Guide for Parents and Guardians (PDF)
Parent & Caregiver Resources | SAMHSA
“Talk. They Hear You.”® Campaign | SAMHSA
Data on Youth Alcohol Use and Impacts: Alcohol Use Among Youth in California, 2017-2021
Conversation tips and resources on other substances

Cannabis: Conversation Starters (also available in Spanish: Temas de conversación)
Opioids: Prevention Resources

Need Help?

If you or someone you know needs help with their alcohol use, call SAMHSA's confidential, free, 24/7 National Hotline at 1-800-662-4357.
Call or text 988 if you are experiencing suicidal, substance use, or other mental health crises. A trained crisis counselor is available to help you 24/7 for free. You can also visit 988lifeline.org.
CalHOPE provides free peer counseling for youth, young adults, and families. Connect with CalHOPE by chat or phone at (833) 317-HOPE (4673).

For questions, please contact us at alcohol@cdph.ca.gov.