Focus on what matters

We all grow up with expectations of what our school years will be like, but nothing can really capture the experiences ahead of you. Make the most of every day by focusing on what brings you joy—instead of letting pop culture and false ideas around underage drinking influence what you do.

How many teens are focusing on what’s important and keeping alcohol out of the picture?

Nope.

Keep going.

close but not quite…

Yep. The fact is 9 out of 10 Washington teens don’t drink.

That’s the goal—we’re just not there yet.

0%

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Every day is different—sometimes, it’s new and exciting. Other times, it’s exhausting and overwhelming. When you need to, take time to focus on those harder emotions—like your stress, boredom, or loneliness. And try these tips when developing your own ways for dealing with them.

Reach out

Text, DM, call, video chat—it doesn’t matter how you stay in touch, just that you do. Connect with your friends, family, and anyone else who makes you feel supported and is there to listen when you need to talk.

Get outside

Think of nature as your instant mood booster. A little time outside can do everything from improving your happiness and reducing your stress to even boosting your immune system. So, try taking a daily walk around your neighborhood or having lunch in your favorite park.

Be creative

Creativity looks different for everyone—yours could be nurturing a succulent terrarium, rearranging your room, getting back to that project you started months ago, or baking your favorite family recipe. It doesn’t matter what it is, or if it’s all of them, as long as it gives you an outlet to unwind.

Start moving

When you move your body, it releases endorphins that ease stress and anxiety. And you don’t need a gym to do it—just stretch, take a walk with friends, dance to your favorite playlist, or create your own workout. And if you feel like you need something more calming to your mind—try meditation or yoga.

Take breaks from social

Heard of tech fatigue? It can be hard to put down your phone, but sometimes seeing all those posts, updates, and articles can leave you feeling burnt out. It’s okay—and important—to give yourself a break from always knowing what’s going on. So, try setting a reminder to disconnect, even if it is just for 15 minutes a day.

Make it a pattern

Whether it’s getting more sleep, eating nourishing foods, catching up with friends, or making time for the activities that make you happy—a routine is key. Find a good balance for all the things in your life and try to stick to it. And if it needs to change later, that’s okay too.

Focus on
your health

Focus on the risks

Underage drinking is over-hyped in pop culture—and the risks are all too real. You’re smart and know how to care for you, which is why knowing all the facts is so important.

Click each tile to learn more.

Be kind
to your mind

Fact 1:

Your brain is still developing. Alcohol can damage your memory and impair your impulse control, learning ability, and judgment.

Stay true
to who you are

Fact 2:

Drinking can lead to bad decisions. From saying stuff you’ll regret to something as serious as driving drunk—drinking just isn’t worth the consequences.

Let nothing
stand in your way

Fact 3:

Underage drinking is illegal, and you could get charged with a Minor in Possession, which can mean fines, losing your license, or even missing out on a job or college.

Work towards
your future

Fact 4:

People who start drinking before age 15 are five times more likely to abuse alcohol later in life than those who begin drinking at or after age 21.

Make yourself
the priority

Fact 5:

It’s dangerous. Drinking is linked with 119,000 ER visits every year nationwide for people under 21, whether it’s injuries from a fall or getting your stomach pumped.