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Alcohol intoxication in early years may predict future substance use

By Staff Writer

The age at which a person first uses alcohol to become intoxicated may increase their risk of future stress-related substance abuse, according to a recent study published in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research.

Study participants included more than 300 males and females who periodically answered survey questions over the course of three years.

The results showed that some individuals begin using alcohol as early as age 8, while most reported that they first experienced intoxication when they were 14 years old. Some subjects' drinking habits coincided with feelings of stress, such as pressure from their jobs. These people were found to consume a higher total number of drinks over the study period, although they drank less frequently than other participants.

The researchers said they believe that treatment programs should focus on delaying the time of adolescents' first drinks, so that young people do not develop a habit of drinking for emotional relief.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than half of Americans who are over the age of 20 regularly drink alcohol.

Teens who exhibit early signs of alcohol use or behavioral issues may benefit from attending boarding schools.

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