Prom season approaches as experts warn about teen alcohol risks

Excessive alcohol use remains the leading preventable cause of death in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As prom, graduation and senior trips approach, health advocates are urging families to talk with teenagers about alcohol use and prevention as part of Alcohol Awareness Month, observed each April.

The CDC reports that alcohol contributes to over thousands of deaths nationwide each year. Addiction specialists say alcohol misuse continues to rise among young adults and adolescents, driven in part by increased access, social media and peer pressure.

"Easier access, social media and peer pressures are really creating a rise in our younger adult and adolescent population suffering from alcohol use disorder and struggling with addiction issues," said Susan Keel Anderson, a representative with Newport Healthcare, a mental health and substance abuse facility that helps those striving to overcome addiction.

Alcohol misuse has broader consequences beyond addiction. Health experts say excessive drinking increases the risk of traffic accidents, domestic violence and long-term physical health problems. For teens, early exposure to alcohol can increase the likelihood of developing alcohol use disorder later in life.

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"It's becoming more common for young people to be exposed to alcohol," Anderson said. "The earlier you're exposed, the more likely you are to struggle with it later on."

Advocates stress that open conversations between parents, guardians and teens are a critical form of prevention. Recognizing warning signs early can also help families intervene before problems escalate.

Possible indicators of alcohol misuse in teens and young adults include mood changes such as anger or irritability, academic or behavioral problems at school, changing friend groups, loss of interest in activities, slurred speech or coordination issues.

Anderson says seeking help early can make a significant difference.

"If you've reached a place where you need treatment, it often starts with talking to people -- reaching out and seeking a therapist," she said. "If you're wondering whether you have a problem with alcohol, it's a good time to reach out to a professional for education and advice."

Alcohol Awareness Month aims to increase understanding about alcohol's health impacts while promoting prevention, particularly among young people. Experts encourage families to use the milestone season -- when celebrations and social gatherings are common -- as an opportunity to reinforce healthy choices and safety planning.