Concern for a Friend: Navigating Young Adolescence and Alcohol Use
As the new school year approaches, many students find themselves reflecting on their friendships and the choices their peers are making. Recently, I’ve been deeply concerned about a close friend who has developed a newfound interest in alcohol consumption. This shift began after she participated in a college preparatory program, and since then, she has begun emphasizing alcohol much more frequently.
It’s important to clarify that I am not personally opposed to alcohol; however, I am deeply concerned about her well-being. Living in the United States, I am aware of how early alcohol use is both illegal and potentially dangerous, particularly given that her brain is still developing. Alcohol acts as a neurotoxin and can have serious consequences on one’s physical health and mental clarity—effects that are amplified in adolescents and young adults.
Despite our conversations prior to her recent changes, she remains aware of the risks but continues to bring alcohol into our discussions. She frequently encourages me to try it or suggests that it’s enjoyable, which makes me uncomfortable. She even mentioned that she strives to avoid alcohol because she has friends who drink excessively, showing a level of self-awareness about her choices.
My concern deepens because I believe her recent behavior may be a response to underlying emotional struggles. She has battled mental health issues since middle school, and last year, she turned to romantic pursuits as an escape—seeking quick dopamine fixes through fleeting relationships. She has openly expressed that alcohol provides her with a temporary refuge and that she considers it a form of escape. These statements worry me because they suggest she might be heading toward unhealthy coping mechanisms, including potential alcohol misuse or dependence.
While I have friends who also drink, most can do so responsibly, and their choices don’t seem driven solely by a desire for thrill or quick highs. Conversely, my friend appears to be engaging with alcohol primarily to seek immediate gratification, which is concerning, especially given her existing mental health challenges.
I find myself in a difficult position. I want to support her, but I also feel uneasy about her behavior. Our friendship is important to me; she is one of my few confidants. Yet, I worry about the impact her current path might have on her future health and happiness. I recognize that I cannot force her decisions—ultimately, they are hers to make—but I also feel conflicted about continuing our friendship if her behavior worsens or leads to self-deprecating attitudes.
This situation underscores the importance of