April is Alcohol Awareness Month: Talk with Teens About Underage Drinking

April is Alcohol Awareness Month—a time to talk about the risks of underage drinking and how we can help prevent it. Parents and caregivers play a big role in keeping teens safe and healthy. When trusted adults talk openly and honestly, teens listen.

Why It Matters

Drinking alcohol is dangerous for young people. It can lead to car crashes, injuries, drowning, risky sexual behavior, and alcohol poisoning. It can also harm the brain, which is still growing through the mid to late twenties. Teens who drink are more likely to have problems in school, with friends, or with the law.

Signs Your Child May Be Drinking

If you’re concerned that your teen may already be drinking, look out for some common warning signs, including:

  • Sudden changes in mood or behavior

  • Withdrawing from family or activities they used to enjoy

  • Changes in sleep patterns or appetite

  • Poor performance or lack of interest in school

  • Hanging out with a new group of friends

  • Smelling alcohol on their breath or clothes

  • Finding alcohol missing from your home

If you notice one or more of these signs, it doesn’t always mean your child is drinking—but it’s a good reason to start a conversation and offer support.

Prevention Works

Talking with teens about alcohol can make a big difference. Research shows that when parents clearly say they do not approve of underage drinking, teens are less likely to drink. Here’s how you can help:

  • Share the facts. Give your teen accurate information about alcohol and how it affects the body and brain.

  • Be involved. Know who your teen spends time with and what they are doing.

  • Support healthy choices. Encourage your teen to join activities that don’t involve alcohol.

  • Set a good example. If you drink alcohol, do so responsibly and never allow access to alcohol at home for anyone underage.

  • Talk to other parents. Work together to make sure teens don’t have easy access to alcohol.

Start the Conversation

It’s never too early—or too late—to talk with your child about alcohol. Look for changes in behavior or mood, and check in regularly. Let them know you care and that you’re there to help them make smart choices.

If you're not sure how to start, tools and resources are available to guide you. Visit SAMHSA’s “Talk. They Hear You.” campaign: https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/prevention/talk-they-hear-you/about .

POSTTracey CarlsonSPR, SB, alcohol, underage drinking, prevent underage drinking, underage drinking risks, talking with kids about substance use risks, talk they hear you