Stopping Underage Drinking: A Community's Collective Effort
Underage drinking can be expensive. And so you know, one of the conversations that you and I had was in terms of the perception in our community. Sometimes is we kind of hone in on what's happening. And right now the heroin epidemic is happening, right. And so we can't dismiss that young people are involved and engaged in unhealthy behaviors, and underage drinking is one of those unhealthy behaviors.
Ever wondered how a community can come together to tackle underage drinking? In this engaging episode, Sonia Santiago and Yvonne Stroman from the Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA) share their insights on the Underage Drinking Program. They delve into how this initiative collaborates with local District Magistrates, law enforcement, juvenile probation officers, and Certified Drug and Alcohol professionals to educate young people about the dangers of alcohol.
The program aims to prevent underage drinking by highlighting its potential to lead to other illegal drug use, often referred to as the 'gateway' effect. Sonia and Yvonne discuss the comprehensive approach of the program, which includes parent orientations, educational sessions, and follow-up meetings. The sessions use evidence-based curriculum to inform both parents and teens about the effects of alcohol, legal consequences like driver's license suspension and court fines, and practical parenting tools.
The program doesn't shy away from addressing the societal attitudes that often make alcohol seem acceptable for young people. Listeners will hear about mixed reactions from the youth participants, but by the third session, many teens start to appreciate the valuable information they’ve received. The episode underscores the significant costs associated with underage drinking—not just financial, but also the impact on young lives.
Sonia and Yvonne stress that education and prevention are key, urging parents to be proactive in their children's lives. This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about underage drinking and its broader implications. It provides a clear picture of how a community can unite to make a difference, offering resources and support for those who need it.