Local use among youth
Alcohol is the most used substance by teens in Winona County. In the past month, 4% of 8th graders, 9% of 9th graders, and 15% of 11th graders used alcohol (Winona County – 2022 Minnesota Student Survey). Although most students still choose not to drink, we are concerned that alcohol is easily accessible and heavily promoted during popular times.
Data below shows the decline in alcohol use per grade from 2013 to 2022 (Wilder Research Winona County Findings & Trends)
The minimum legal consumption age when an individual can purchase alcohol products is 21.
Why youth alcohol use is harmful
Alcohol is harmful to teen brains that continue to develop until age 25. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) found that a person who begins drinking as a young teen is four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence than someone who waits until adulthood to use alcohol.
Support your teen
How to talk with your kid about alcohol:
