The Facts
Parents Make a Difference
Creating a safe environment for children and teens to thrive is the responsibility of all Texans, but parents play a special role in standing up for and with our youth.
As a prime influence on a child’s life, it’s important for parents to know about the harms of underage alcohol use. Knowing the facts helps parents make decisions that protect their children.
![Image](https://texansstanding.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/For-Parents_The-Facts.jpg)
The Facts
Alcohol is the most commonly misused drug among Texas youth. While some people may view underage drinking as a harmless rite of passage, there are actually many serious consequences associated with underage alcohol use.
- Youth who start drinking alcohol before age 15 are four times more likely to have issues with alcohol dependence or misuse as adults.
- Underage drinking increases the risk of physical and sexual assault.
- Alcohol use is a key contributing factor to teenage suicide.
- Underage drinking can affect brain development in a way that has life-long effects.
- 1 in 5 teen drivers involved in fatal car crashes has alcohol in their system.