What are parents whose kids drink in high school doing or thinking?

jasmom
Wed, 31 May 2006 20:10:52 +0000

katiebee,
There are a number of things that you are doing that are protective; you drink with people that you trust, you don’t drink and drive, you don’t ride with a driver who has been drinking, you’re aware of the ways that alcohol can negatvely impact judgment, and you are alert to possible adverse effects. I’m glad that you are tuning into these issues. You are also aware that drinking regularly isn’t healthy. Since you have decided that you will continue to drink, you may want to also be aware that women (of the same size as a man) who drink the same amount, will not metabolize the alcohol as quickly. Thus your BAL, blood alcohol level, will be higher. Most people (who have not developed tolerance) with find a BAC of .05 - .06 to produce the most positive sensations and minimize the negative effects. Drinking more does not increase or prolong the euphoria. So… if you choose to drink, continue to minimize harm by avoiding shots and drinking games, alternating alcoholic with non-alcoholic drinks, eating before and while drinking. Also please do note that MOST high school students do not drink, and whereas MOST college students drink, they do so moderately. Approximately 70% of the alcohol is consumed by 30% of the students.