In honor of National Alcohol Awareness Month, the Washington Healthy Youth Coalition is sharing results from the 2023 Healthy Youth Survey (HYS) to help parents and caregivers understand the important role they play in preventing underage drinking.
According to the 2023 HYS, 9 percent of 10th graders in Washington reported current alcohol use, defined as drinking within the past 30 days. Over the last 20 years, current alcohol use among Washington 10th graders has declined significantly from 33 percent! This wouldn’t have been possible without you – Washington parents and caregivers. Thank you for supporting and empowering your teens to make healthy choices, like choosing not to drink.
In Washington:
- Most (58 percent) 10th graders say their parents talk to them about not drinking alcohol.
- 93 percent of 10th grade students whose families set clear rules about alcohol do not drink.
- Only 4 percent of Washington 10th graders drink alcohol if their parents think it is wrong, while 18 percent drink if their parents don’t think it is wrong.
- 92 percent of 10th grade students who feel comfortable asking their parents for help with personal problems don’t drink alcohol.
As a parent or caregiver, you are the most powerful influence in your child’s life. You can help your teen make healthy choices by talking with them about underage drinking, establishing clear boundaries, and strengthening your relationship with them. For tips and resources on how to talk with your teens about underage drinking, check out Start Talking Now’s parent guide.