Study Finds Link Between Adolescent Drinking and Adult Tolerance.

Even moderate amounts of alcohol can alter teens' brain and liver function, possibly leading to higher alcohol tolerance later in life, according to new research from Baylor University.

Underage drinking is an adult problem. It is a fact that the majority of underage youth get their alcohol from adult sources, such as older friends or relatives, strangers, stores etc. To combat the problem numerous cities throughout San Diego County have passed Social Host Ordinances. These Ordinances make it illegal for adults to provide alcohol to minors (other than their children) in their homes.

A report released earlier this month by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy revealed that depressed teenagers using marijuana to self-medicate can actually worsen their depression, leading to more serious mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, anxiety and even suicide. The agency urges parents to pay close attention to their teen's behavior and mood swings and not think that marijuana use is harmless.

Here are some tips:

The Internet acts as a megastore where young people can purchase almost anything, including prescription drugs, marijuana, cocaine, club drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes. They can also find online directions to concoct drugs such as methamphetamines and even learn how to get high on household products such as cough medicine or aerosol sprays. This is why parents and caring adults must be on the alert to ensure that their kids don’t buy drugs online or obtain them from other kids who are buying them online.