Even at age 15 or older, drinking can be hazardous to health - not drinking is the healthiest option for young people. The CMO guidance on the consumption of alcohol by children and young people says “If 15- to 17-year-olds do consume alcohol, they should do so infrequently and certainly on no more than one day a week. Young people aged 15 to 17 years should never exceed recommended adult daily limits and, on days when they drink, consumption should usually be below such levels.”
That’s because of evidence that shows:
- Young people who binge drink in adolescence (15 to 16 years) are more likely to experience negative outcomes in the transition to adulthood. In particular, binge drinking at this age has been linked to a higher likelihood of involvement in other substance misuse, crime, lower educational attainment and drug dependence.
- Drinking at this age is also associated with other substance abuse, employment problems and risky driving behaviours.