Tell-tale signs of recent alcohol use are confidence, reduced inhibitions, drowsiness, unsteadiness, slurred speech and the smell of alcohol.

WHAT?

Alcohol is a fermented drink that young people over the age of 18 can buy and consume legally. Young people can consume alcohol at an earlier age if supervised in a private home with the consent of a parent or guardian. 

Common types include beer, spirits, wine and mixed drinks (spirits and soft drink).

OTHER NAMES

Booze, grog, piss, goon. Alcohol also goes by many different brand names.

SIGNS SOMEONE MIGHT BE USING IN MY HOUSE

Alcohol is one of the most widely recognised substances that young people use. Many alcoholic beverages come in labelled or bottles or cans.

Alcohol can also be mixed with other drinks (such as in a soft drink bottle) or concealed in smaller bottles (hip flasks).

One of the most inexpensive forms of alcohol is cask wine or ‘goon’ which is sold in 2 or 4 litter silver pouches encased in a cardboard box.  

HOW COMMON IS USEAGE?

Alcohol is the most common substance that young people will experiment with. Traditionally, alcohol use in Australia has been high and widespread however current research suggests in the past 10 years, up to 50% of young people have chosen to abstain completely and not use alcohol. Alcohol is also the second most used drug by young people accessing youth drug treatment services in Victoria.

HOW CAN I TELL IF THEY HAVE BEEN USING?

Tell-tale signs of recent alcohol use are confidence, reduced inhibitions, drowsiness, unsteadiness, slurred speech and the smell of alcohol (or masking agents such as mouth wash or chewing gum) on a person’s breath. Vomiting could be a sign of excessive alcohol consumption.