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What It Really Does to a Developing Body and Brain

The Numbers

• 44% of 15-year-olds have tried alcohol
• But 56% haven't — and the majority don't drink regularly
• 40% of under-16 A&E admissions involve alcohol
• UK has one of the highest teenage drinking rates in Europe

Your Brain on Alcohol

• Brain development continues until your mid-20s
• Binge drinking causes permanent structural changes in the adolescent brain
• Memory, decision-making, and emotional regulation are most affected
• These effects are NOT reversible

The Law

• Under 18: illegal to buy or be supplied alcohol in public
• Drunk and disorderly: prosecution at any age
• Providing alcohol to under-18s: criminal offence for the adult
• Driving under the influence: severe penalties

How Alcohol Is Normalised

• Advertising links alcohol to success, fun, and attractiveness
• Most 'cool' characters on TV drink
• Parental drinking patterns are highly influential
• But: most teenagers don't drink heavily — norms are distorted

Getting Help

• 📞 NACOA (children of alcoholics): 0800 358 3456
• 📞 FRANK: 0300 123 6600
• 🌐 al-anon.org.uk for family support
• 📞 Childline: 0800 1111

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You have every right to say no.