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Have you ever felt pressured to do something because you believed all your friends were doing it? This is called peer pressure, and it can play a big role in whether teenagers decide to drink alcohol. Saying no to peer pressure can be hard but it is not impossible. Keep reading to learn more about peer pressure and how to avoid giving in to it.
What is Peer Pressure?
Peer pressure is when you feel pushed to do something because people your age or around your age are doing it. It’s not always bad, but it can lead to risky behaviors, like drinking alcohol.
How Does Peer Pressure Influence Alcohol Use?
When teenagers see their friends drink, they might feel like they have to drink to fit in, feel accepted and avoid ridicule or teasing. This can lead to drinking at a young age. Underage drinking is risky because the teenage brain is still developing and can be more affected by alcohol.
What are the Risks of Teenage Alcohol Use?
Drinking alcohol as a teenager can lead to problems at school, like lower grades, low self-esteem or getting in trouble. It can also lead to health problems, like damage to the developing brain, and increase the risk of developing Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) later in life. AUD is a medical condition where a person has trouble controlling their drinking and continues to drink despite facing negative social, work/health consequences.
How Can We Resist Peer Pressure?
Resisting peer pressure can be hard, but it’s possible. Here are some tips:
Remember, it’s okay to say no if you’re not comfortable with something. It’s important to make decisions that are best for you and your overall well-being.
