SAMHSA's 2003 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reveals that the highest prevalence of binge and heavy drinking is for young adults aged 18 to 25, with a binge drinking rate of 41.6 percent, and a "heavy alcohol use" rate of 15.1 percent.   The study also reveals that 29 percent of youths aged 12 to 20 drink alcohol, and that full-time college students are more likely than other young people to use and abuse alcohol.

Parents of binge drinking teens and young adults find help and support in Al-Anon Family Group meetings.   In a supportive, confidential environment, they share their fears and frustrations, and hear the experiences of other parents.   For 55 years, Al-Anon members have helped each other cope with problem drinking in relatives or friends.   They learn that to help the drinker, they must help themselves first.

Harvey S.*, a member from North Carolina, shares:   "When I came to Al-Anon, I carried a heavy load of depression, guilt, and sadness. I suffered from the effects of dealing with a drinking son.   I was in sheer desperation and could see no light at the end of the tunnel.   Somehow I felt I was responsible for the drinking.   In Al-Anon I found people who understood, cared, and accepted me as I was.   They loved me even when I did not love myself.   I left my first meeting with hope and the knowledge I was not alone in my struggle.   I grasped this program as if it were a life preserver that someone had thrown to me."

Al-Anon Family Group meetings (including Alateen for younger family members) are available in most communities.   Check the white pages under "Al-Anon," visit www.al-anon.alateen.org, or call 1-888-4AL-ANON, Monday - Friday, 8 am - 6 pm ET   (US, Canada, and the Caribbean).

# # #

*In keeping with Al-Anon's Tradition of anonymity, members are identified in the media with first names only.