underage drinking

By Lauren Barnes with the Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse The days of D.A.R.E. and “just say no” are behind us, and experts say teens need scientific facts about drugs and alcohol to be better prepared to make the right decisions. However, teens are receiving incorrect messages about drugs and alcohol from their friends, television and social media. The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse is working to ensure youth in Daingerfield receive the correct facts, but we can’t do it alone. We need parents to talk to their teens about common drug and alcohol myths and empower them with the facts so they can make healthy decisions. Myth: Drinking is a rite of passage and everyone is doing it. Only one in five East Texas 7th-12th graders are current users of alcohol, according to the 2014 Texas School Survey.

Underage drinking is a problem that effects every community. It is also a problem that can be conquered, especially when the community works together. The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse is making strides in Daingerfield to that end. There are several aspects to consider when attempting to curb any issue like underage drinking. There must be education, not only for students, but for parents and the community as well. There also must be involvement from different organizations throughout the community, including faith-based groups, businesses, and of course the schools. The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse is actively working in each of these areas to raise awareness and education about underage drinking in Daingerfield. The best way to educate students on the dangers of underage drinking, is to have students relay the message. Peer Pressure is not always a bad thing.