Binge Drinking on the Rise Among Teens

The dangers of binge drinking are serious and becoming more common among teens.

Registered Nurse of Genesis Recovery Center, Cathy Hunt works with adolescents and said the goal among teens who binge drink is to become intoxicated as quickly as possible. Her concern is that they often do not understand their bodies are not fully developed and will shut down.

"Kids seem to have this mentality of well, we’ll find a place, we’ll get the alcohol and we’re going to have a party," said Hunt. "I don’t think they understand the repercussions of that."

Hunt said alcohol poisoning is a serious danger among teens who binge drink. They will often become unconscious, begin to vomit and will aspirate, leading to death if no one turns them over. She said teens who drink are more likely to have behavioral problems, leading to suicide, violence and at times unprotected sex. She said when it comes to alcohol and teens there is no safe limit.

"My suggestion is absence," expressed Hunt. "Don’t do it, don’t do it."

Genesis Adolescent Treatment Program offers education on the dangers of drug use, cross addicting and binge drinking. Hunt said the focus is on education-not a lecture.

Fo more information call the Adolescent Treatment Program (740) 454-5927