New Hope Boys Home helps troubled teen boys involved in alcohol abuse. Our affordable, year-round Christian boarding school helps boys ages 12-17 who are misbehaving and struggling self-destructive or dangerous behaviors. We help boys transform into responsible, respectful and peaceful young men. Call for more information, (830) 257-5714.
Why Alcohol Abuse Happens
Teens tend to use alcohol or drugs to alleviate negative moods, to increase confidence, to reduce tension, to cope with problems, to lose inhibitions, to enhance sex or to lose weight. These are just some of the reasons why teens use alcohol and other substances, but there always is some deep underlying issue that brings the substance use to the surface. Finding this issue or issues is paramount in fighting the battle of use and addiction.
Eye-Opening Statistics About Teenagers and Alcohol Use
Approximately one-third of all teenage boys and girls have their first alcoholic drink, more than a few sips, before entering high school. Teenage and preteen youth are starting to drink at younger ages than ever before. Today, teens report that they begin to drink alcohol before the age of 13. This is especially disturbing since teens who participate in alcohol use early in life are at greater risk of becoming alcoholics.
Nearly half of high school students drink alcohol and more than 1 in 4 binge drink, consuming five or more drinks on the same incident. Nearly 1 in 5 of 8th grade teens drink alcohol and more than 1 in 10 binge drink.
Teenage boys and girls who are heavy drinkers, consuming more than seven drinks per week, are five times more likely to have sex without protection, than teens who do not drink.
How You Can Help Teens Avoid Alcohol Use and Abuse
Family involvement and support are important in preventing substance use among teenage girls and boys. Feeling connected to school and achieving good grade reports may be a strong motivator for those in high risk. This is especially useful when considering that poor school performance in adolescent girls and boys increases the risk for alcohol and drug use in early adulthood. Programs that provide teens with positive role models may improve chances that teenagers will not drink prematurely.
If your family is struggling with a son who is using, experimenting, or abusing alcohol, please call us today.
New Hope Boys Home’s low-cost boarding school and therapeutic program in Central Texas features licensed counselors, top academics and adventurous therapeutic activities. Boys also benefit from teaching servanthood and mentoring, designed to better transition them into adulthood. Call now to find help for your teen boy’s alcohol abuse now, (830) 257-5714.
