When the effects of teen alcoholism negatively impact families or society, parents or the legal system may force such teens to seek help. However, because alcoholism is an addiction, and drinking makes alcoholics feel good, they may not be ready to seek help. Unfortunately, only about 20 percent of all teen alcoholics who are forced into treatment stop abusing alcohol after being released, whereas about 50 percent of teens who willingly seek help remain alcohol free. Therefore, before teen alcoholics can effectively end their addiction to alcohol, they must admit that they have a drinking problem.

Overcoming Denial

Even though it may be obvious to family and friends that a teen has a drinking problem, many youthful alcoholics are unable or unwilling to admit that abusing alcohol is negatively affecting their lives. This is known as denial. In some cases, denial happens because they enjoy the effects of...