SUBSTANCES
ALCOHOL
Not a Harmless Rite of PassageIn Marin County, teen drinking outpaces both the state and national averages, a long-standing epidemic fueled by easy access, peer normalization, and adult modeling. Alcohol is often the first substance kids try, and the one many of us were raised to see as a normal rite of passage. But underage drinking isn't a rite of passage, and it isn't inevitable. During adolescence the brain is still developing, especially the areas behind judgment, impulse control, and decision-making, and alcohol can interfere with that growth, raising the risk of accidents, injuries, mental health challenges, and future substance use.
UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS
How Alcohol Affects the Teenage Brain and Body
A teenage brain is still being built, and alcohol interferes with the construction. The effects land harder, last longer, and reach systems that won't finish developing until the mid-20s, which is exactly why "just a little" carries more risk than it seems.
THE RATE OF BINGE DRINKING AMONG MARIN COUNTY TEENS IS CONSISTENTLY AND SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER THAN THE CALIFORNIA AVERAGE.
WHAT THE SCIENCE SAYS
The Latest Research
WHAT THE SCIENCE SAYS
The Latest Research
FURTHER READING
Articles Worth Reading
Whether you're looking for the latest science, advice on starting the conversation or perspective from local, these resources are a good place to start.
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A Local Teen's Perspective on Substance Use in Marin
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6 Lies I Believed About Alcohol
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Interview with Hadley Sorenson, Author of The Dirty Truth On Social Drinking
MYTH BUSTERS
Exploring Common Misconceptions About Alcohol
Alcohol is deeply woven into our culture. Here are the widely held misconceptions and the research to bust them.
CONVERSATION STARTERS
Scripts For Real Moments
You don't need a perfect speech, just a starting point. These talking points are designed to open dialogue about alcohol, not close it down. Pick the one that fits where you are right now.
Explore More Substances
Every substance affects a developing brain differently. Choose one below for clear, honest information and ways to start the conversation.
Looking for More Than Substances?
Come explore the rest — adolescent development, mental health, elementary-age guidance, and simple things you can do as a parent are all here waiting for you. Wherever you are in this journey, there's something to help you feel a little more ready.