College is both exciting and stressful. For most students, it’s also their first real taste of freedom. One of the coping mechanisms that students often turn to is alcohol. The expectations and societal pressures that students face on campus can lead to excessive drinking and its associated problems.
Overindulging in alcoholic beverages can have serious negative impacts on students. Underage drinking may harm cognitive function and brain development, resulting in questionable conduct and subpar academic achievement. Additionally, there is a higher chance of alcohol dependence later in life for individuals who begin imbibing before the legal drinking age.
What problems does underage drinking pose for students?
On college campuses, alcohol is the most commonly abused substance. Here are some of the consequences that underage drinkers encounter.
- Inability to focus in the classroom or when studying
- poor academic performance
- drunk driving arrests
Serious health problems can arise in underage drinkers. Contrary to popular belief, our brains continue to develop in our early twenties. Overindulging in alcoholic beverages can slow or inhibit brain development. This can lead to memory problems and poor decisions, which ultimately may result in serious consequences.
Excessive alcohol consumption often promotes sexually risky conduct. Underage drinkers may be at increased risk for STIs, unwanted pregnancies and other sexually transmitted illnesses.
Underage drinking and DUI
Underage drinking can lead to driving while under the influence. Being arrested for DUI has serious consequences such as jail time, license suspension, fines and other penalties. Offenders may also be required to attend alcohol rehabilitation treatment.
A DUI can also lead to disciplinary action on campus, including suspension or expulsion. Any charges related to underage drinking can have a devastating effect on a young person’s future opportunities in school and the workforce. That’s why it is important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible following your arrest.