[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”TEENAGE BOOZING” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Discovering your child is drinking can instil a great deal of fear, anxiety, confusion, and anger in any parent. It is important to stay calm when talking to your teen, and to only broach the subject when everyone is sober. Tell your child that you are worried and that your concern is coming from a genuine place of love. It is critical that your teen feels you want to understand and be supportive.
Five helpful steps:
- Clearly set forth rules and consequences:Your child needs to receive the message that drinking alcohol comes with specific consequences. However, it is important you don’t make hollow threats or set rules that you cannot enforce. Make sure your spouse or partner agrees with the rules and is prepared to enforce them.
- Monitor your child’s activity:Know where your teen goes and who he or she hangs out with. Remove alcohol from your home and routinely check potential hiding places, such as a backpack, under the bed, between clothes in a drawer, etc. It is important to tell your child that this lack of privacy is a direct consequence of his or her problems with alcohol.
- Encourage your child to pursue other interests and social activities.Expose your teen to healthy hobbies and activities, such as team sports, art projects, volunteer work in the communities, etc.
- Talk to your child about underlying issues and listen closely to their questions and/or input.Drinking is often the result of other problems. Is your child having trouble fitting in at school and with friends? Has there been a big change in his or her life, like a death in the family, a move or divorce?
- Get outside help:You don’t have to go through this alone. Teenagers often rebel against their parents. However, if they hear the same message from a different authority figure, they may be more inclined to listen. Try seeking help from a counsellor, educator, physician or clergy member.
MORE USEFUL INFORMATION
Addiction Help Centre: No matter how bad the abuse is or how desperate and powerless you feel, remember – there is hope and help available. Don’t give up, even if you’ve tried repeatedly.
WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP?
Find the right treatment for your child. Many effective alcohol treatment options are available for teens, including rehab programs and sober living facilities. Of course, professional help isn’t the only answer. There are also plenty of things you can do to help your teen stop drinking and achieve lasting recovery. Helpful literature is available, including “Alcohol Addiction Treatment and Self-Help” – please call us for help today.
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