The Unconscious Truth – The Physical and Legal Effects of Underage Binge Drinking is a multi-media project created by the Texas Young Lawyers Association to educate students and parents on the signs of alcohol poisoning and the legal and physical consequences associated with binge drinking.

The project begins with a video inspired by actual events and shows the beginnings of a great party. It follows “Hannah” who lives at the home and her best friend, “Shelby”. The party continues with “Shelby’s” goal of consuming numerous shots in just a short amount of time. Soon after, “Shelby” begins showing the signs of alcohol poisoning, but her friends just tell her she will “feel better now” after she throws up and to “sleep it off”. The video continues with the physical effects of the alcohol on “Shelby” and is followed by the arrest of “Hannah” and her father.

The surprising ending will provoke many discussions regarding the signs of alcohol poisoning, the duties, if any, of the drinker’s friends and the potential criminal and civil consequences of everyone involved. The discussion is supported by curriculum explaining points in the video and the different synopsis and endings. In addition, there are videos from the Allens for students and parents and a myths section which can be used as a true/false game or quiz.  Please click here to download the guided discussion materials.