Teen Alcoholism:
Signs and Action Steps

Do You Suspect Teen Alcoholism in Your Family?

The teenage years are often earmarked by experimentation and risk-taking as teens test the waters into adulthood. At the same time, heightened peer pressure, curiosity and a desire to challenge boundaries all create an ideal environment for alcohol trial and potential teen alcoholism issues.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the following are warning signs of teen alcoholism or drug abuse:

• Missing school or work.

• Not saying where he or she is going; or being vague about where he or she has been.

• Lying about where he or she has been.

• Stopping activities that he or she used to enjoy and not replacing them with other fun activities.

• Borrowing money from parents or friends and unable to explain loss of money or valuables.

• Sniffling, runny nose, dilated pupils or red eyes.

• Losing appetite or eating too much

• Associating with a new group of friends, often those who use drugs.

• Hiding things that would show alcohol or drug use, liquor bottles, rolling papers or pipes.

• Moodiness, change in personality, avoiding you.

Parents must learn to recognize these signs and take proactive steps to help teens avoid alcohol.

If parents suspect or discover teenage drinking is already occurring, Parent Life Coach Susan P. Epstein, LCSW, recommends the following pro-active strategies to help stop teen alcoholism progression.

• Parental Monitoring: Supervise your teen or know where he or she is and what he or she is doing.

• Make a Plan: Decide what you will say before you talk to your teen if you suspect alcohol or drug abuse. (Avoid negativity, express your concerns, caring and love.

• State the Facts: State what you know from the above warning signs.

• Be Open: Listen to what your teen has to say.

• Set and Enforce Rules: With care and concern, let your teen know that you will not put up with drug or alcohol use/abuse. "I know you can’t stand it when I make rules, but I am your parent and it my job to keep you safe." Hold your teen accountable for his or her actions and set clear consequences for not obeying your rules.

• Be Prepared for Obstacles: Many teens will become very angry and defensive and walk away from you. Take a deep breath and go back for round #2.

• Keep Talking: Any chance you get, make an attempt to talk with your teen. Don’t give up or lose your temper no matter how uncomfortable the situation might seem.

• Design a Contract: About rules and their consequences. Both you and your teen sign it. Be clear, firm and concise.

• Follow Through: Be consistent. The minute you back off, your teen will run with the freedom.

Above all, remember your teen needs and wants your involvement – though his or her words and actions may suggest otherwise. If your teen is abusing alcohol or becoming dependent on the drug, seek professional help and get treatment immediately.

Related Information

Return HOME from Teen Alcoholism