Underage drinking leads to severe health and social risks - AWARE.org

The Association for Alcohol Responsibility and Education (Aware.org) has raised concern over the number of underage drinkers, especially with Youth Day long weekend.

PICTURE: Pixabay

According to the organisation, research indicates that about 19.9% had their first drink by the age of 13, highlighting that underage drinking is alarmingly prevalent in South Africa, also adding that nearly 50% of high school learners have consumed alcohol.

‘’These figures underscore the urgency of tackling this issue through awareness, education and community engagement,’’ said Mokebe Thulo, Head of Brand for AWARE.org.

The Organisation aims to combat underage drinking by educating the youth about the severe health and social risks of underage drinking, through its "No to Under 18" flagship programme.

‘’As health experts warn, negative consequences can include impaired brain development, a higher risk of addiction to alcohol and other substances, and increased susceptibility to other risky and harmful behaviours.’’

In April 2024, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) found that inadequate law enforcement to prevent the sale of alcohol to minors and to regulate liquor outlets, are the leading cause of underage drinking. It was referring to the the deaths of 21 partygoers at a “pens down” event at the Enyobeni tavern in East London in 2022

Thulo says it takes a whole of society approach to put an end to this scourge.

‘’It is important to recognise that the attitudes and behaviours around underage drinking are not isolated to individual choices but are influenced by societal norms and pressures. Therefore, addressing this issue requires a collective effort from the entire community, including parents, educators, and policymakers. By depicting these trials and tribulations, this initiative aims to spark meaningful conversations among peers and families about the importance of avoiding alcohol consumption before the age of 18, as well as to change risky attitudes and behaviours.’’

‘’AWARE.org urges parents, educators, and community leaders to engage with young people about the dangers of alcohol consumption. By fostering open dialogues and providing accurate information, we can collectively work towards reducing the prevalence of underage drinking.’’

 “Youth Day is not only a time to reflect on past struggles but also to address present-day issues affecting our young people, and underage drinking is a critical one. If we act as the whole of society when it comes to underage drinking, the solution to this challenge to young people’s lives and futures is within our grasp. As we honour the spirit of Youth Day, let us also commit to safeguarding the health and futures of our young people, and giving them the opportunity to become makers of tomorrow,” concluded Mokebe Thulo, Head of Brand for AWARE.org.

 

Done By: Mitchum George