UNDERAGE DRINKING IN PENNSYLVANIA: WHAT PARENTS IN HANOVER NEED TO KNOW

Underage drinking continues to be a major concern in Pennsylvania, especially in suburban and rural communities like Hanover. While it may seem like “just a phase” or a typical part of growing up, alcohol use among teens and young adults can quickly lead to dangerous behaviors, long-term health risks, and in some cases, the early signs of addiction.

At BriteLife Recovery in Hanover, PA, we work closely with families and young adults (ages 18 and older) to provide education, support, and evidence-based treatment for alcohol use. We believe that prevention starts at home—and that recovery is always possible when the right support is in place.

Alcohol Use Among Teens and Young Adults in PA

According to recent data from the Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS), underage drinking remains one of the most commonly reported substance use behaviors among high school students. In many cases, alcohol is introduced at a young age—sometimes as early as middle school—through peer pressure, family environments, or cultural norms.

Even after turning 18, many young adults underestimate the risks of alcohol use. In college settings, binge drinking and social drinking are often normalized, despite their links to poor academic performance, impaired judgment, accidents, and legal trouble.

It’s not uncommon for an 18- or 19-year-old to struggle with alcohol misuse without realizing that it has become a serious problem. That’s why early intervention is so important.

Why Parents Still Play a Crucial Role

Even when a child turns 18, parents continue to be one of the most influential voices in their life. Having open, honest conversations about alcohol use is critical—especially if you’re noticing changes in mood, behavior, or priorities.

Signs of alcohol misuse in young adults may include:

• Frequent hangovers or illness
• Secretive behavior or lying about drinking
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Mood swings or increased irritability
• Withdrawal from family, friends, or responsibilities
• Legal trouble or school-related issues

If any of these red flags are showing up, it may be time to have a deeper conversation—and possibly reach out for professional support.

Supportive, Comprehensive Care for Young Adults at BriteLife Hanover

At BriteLife Recovery in Hanover, PA, we provide a safe, structured, and welcoming environment for young adults (18+) to begin their journey toward recovery. As a parent, you can feel confident knowing your child will be supported by a team of professionals who understand the unique needs of this age group.

Our program offers:

• Medically monitored detox, when needed, to ensure safe and comfortable withdrawal under 24/7 medical care
• Residential alcohol treatment in a peaceful, distraction-free setting designed to promote healing and self-reflection
• Evidence-based therapies, including:
• • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Trauma-informed care for those with past emotional or psychological wounds
• Life skills development, helping young adults build confidence, structure, and emotional regulation for daily life
• Peer support groups, where clients connect with others who understand what they’re going through
• Chef-prepared meals by Chef Anthony, designed to nourish the body and aid in physical recovery through balanced nutrition
• Cooking groups led by Chef Anthony, offering hands-on experience, teamwork, and valuable life skills in the kitchen
• Family therapy and communication coaching, helping parents and young adults reconnect, rebuild trust, and move forward together
• Aftercare and discharge planning, ensuring ongoing support and guidance once your child transitions out of residential care

At BriteLife Hanover, we treat more than just the symptoms of alcohol use—we treat the whole person, and we include the whole family. If your young adult is struggling with alcohol abuse, we’re here to help them reclaim their life—and help you find peace of mind in the process.