SAMHSA's 2003 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reveals that the highest prevalence of binge and heavy drinking is for young adults aged 18 to 25, with a binge drinking rate of 41.6 percent, and a "heavy alcohol use" rate of 15.1 percent. The study also reveals that 29 percent of youths aged 12 to 20 drink alcohol, and that full-time college students are more likely than other young people to use and abuse alcohol.
Parents of binge drinking teens and young adults find help and support in Al-Anon Family Group meetings. In a supportive, confidential environment, they share their fears and frustrations, and hear the experiences of other parents.
For over 53 years, Al-Anon members have helped each other cope with problem drinking in relatives or friends. They learn that to help the drinker, they must help themselves first.
A Life Preserver
A member from North Carolina shares: "When I came to Al-Anon, I carried a heavy load of depression, guilt, and sadness. I suffered from the effects of dealing with a drinking son. I was in sheer desperation and could see no light at the end of the tunnel. Somehow I felt I was responsible for the drinking. In Al-Anon I found people who understood, cared, and accepted me as I was. They loved me even when I did not love myself. I left my first meeting with hope and the knowledge I was not alone in my struggle. I grasped this program as if it were a life preserver that someone had thrown to me."Al-Anon Family Group meetings (including Alateen for younger family members) are available in most communities. Check the white pages under "Al-Anon," visit the Al-Anon web site or call 1-888-4AL-ANON, Monday - Friday, 8 am - 6 pm ET (US, Canada, and the Caribbean).
Al-Anon 2003 Membership Survey results are available online. SAMHSA's study is available on the SAMSHA web site.
