Aussie Teens Drinking Less: Social Media and Education Drive Change

Are Aussie Teens Drinking Less? A recent report by ABC News Australia reveals a decline in alcohol consumption among Australian teenagers. The study highlights several factors contributing to this trend, including increased awareness of the health risks associated with alcohol consumption, particularly among young people. Young people interviewed for the report emphasized the growing influence of social media trends promoting sobriety. "Being a teen who doesn't drink is such a vibe like I have never been hungover and save my money," one teenager shared. Experts from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation and the University of Sydney contributed to the report, emphasizing the vulnerability of developing brains to alcohol's harmful effects. Professor Ian Hickie, a brain expert, points out that "when you're young, particularly between 12 and 25, your brain is growing and developing." While the decline in alcohol consumption is encouraging, the report concludes that underage drinking remains a significant problem, and changing attitudes may take time. The report underscores the importance of continued education and awareness campaigns to address this issue.