Young people

Young people are more susceptible to the harmful effects from drinking alcohol compared to adults [33425]. The young brain is still developing and so it is more easily damaged by alcohol [34702]. Damage to the brain from drinking alcohol can lead to problems with learning and memory. Young people who have been drinking alcohol are also more likely to engage in risky behaviours such as getting in to fights, having accidents and doing things they regret [26162].

Delaying the age at which young people start drinking (preferably until after 18 years of the age) has positive health and social effects [34702].  The later a person starts to drink the less likely they are to have problems with alcohol when they are older.

Health promotion programs to reduce alcohol use are more likely to be successful when they are tailored and culturally appropriate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people [26162]. Providing young people with activities that promote health and wellbeing are important strategies in reducing demand and preventing problematic alcohol use.