What is teen alcohol use disorder?

There are many possible signs of alcohol use disorder. Some examples include:

• Not being able to cut down or control your drinking.
• Having strong cravings for alcohol.
• Needing more alcohol to get the same effect, or getting less effect from the same amount.
• Having uncomfortable symptoms when you stop drinking or drink less.

Some teens are able to stop drinking with help from a school alcohol education program or a counselor. Treatment also can include group therapy. Teens who have moderate to severe alcohol use disorder may need medical treatment. They may need to stay in a hospital or treatment center.

Treatment focuses on more than alcohol. It also helps you cope with the anger, frustration, sadness, and disappointment that often happen when a person tries to stop drinking.

Treatment also looks at other parts of your life, like your relationships with friends and family, school and work, medical problems, and living situation. It helps you find and manage problems. Treatment helps you take control of your life so you don't need to drink alcohol. Family counseling often is part of treatment.

Teens with this disorder drink even though it causes harm to themselves or others. They may neglect school, work, or relationships and engage in risky behaviors. They may find it hard to control their drinking. Your teen may want to stop drinking but feel they can't because quitting or drinking less causes uncomfortable symptoms.