I agree that there are many, many reviews, research analyses, etc. that
keep us from being on the same page. However, Blue Mountains, I think
it's helpful to get it all out there so that people make their own decisions about how to manage things in their lives.

It's ultimately a "be one's own advocate" in my view.

It's interesting that your psychiatrist and therapist have different views of how to treat the matter.

We know that many alcoholics drink to relieve the symptoms of mental illness. We know that others drink because of an allergy to alcohol.
There are as many reasons, perhaps, as there are people.

I just know that it's easier not to participate in it than it is to get over
addiction to it. And who among us knows from the very beginning whether we have a problem with becoming addicted to it?

The teenage years are like "trying on outfits to see which one fits", according to my psychiatrist. With that in mind, alcohol temptations
may be too strong for a young mind to grasp immediately. So I suggest that the teenager be taught to be abstinent until full maturity is reached.

I know that there are strong rebuttals against that, but in my view, it
needs to be open so that everyone expresses the truth as he, she sees it.

I appreciate your view, especially, because I know that you are a
conscientious person with a masters who is teaching young people
and loves them. I see your points readily, but am a strong believer
in mine, also.

Some of us are never going to be on the same page, again, for numerous reasons.

Thanks for your reply on this. It's important, I think.