Why “Don't Be the Source” Matters in Salmon

 When we ask how teenagers get alcohol, it's easy to picture someone sneaking into a store.

Often, youth access is much closer to home.

Through SSAPCO's local assessment work and conversations with young people, we've heard about access through friends, older youth, siblings, family members and adults.

We've also heard the argument that allowing teenagers to drink at home is safer because at least an adult knows where they are.

Our youth themselves have challenged that thinking.

Their message to adults has been remarkably straightforward:

Don't be the source.

Most local parents strongly disapprove of youth substance use. That's a protective factor worth preserving.

But it only takes a small number of adults willing to provide alcohol to create access for a much larger group of teenagers.

Parents can help by securing alcohol in their homes, knowing what's happening when teenagers gather, communicating with other parents, and setting clear expectations with older siblings and young adults.

Prevention isn't only about asking teenagers to make good decisions.

Adults have decisions to make too.

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