The Berrien County Health Department is leading conversations about the dangers of underage drinking.

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, and the department’s Substance Use Disorder Prevention Team is working to discourage underage drinking and provide tools to caregivers.

16 percent of Berrien County high school students reported drinking in the last month, and the average age of first alcohol use is between 13 and 14 years old.

Youth who drink are more likely to experience school problems, social problems, legal problems and physical problems.

And, studies show underage drinking can contribute to challenges with mental health, use of other substances and health issues later on in life.

Parents are urged to talk about alcohol use with their children and can visit the Health Department’s website for additional resources. 

More information can be found here: bit.ly/BCHDUnderageDrinkingPrevention.