How to Help a Teenage Alcoholic

The teenage years can be stressful as young people seek their places in the world. Testing boundaries is one way that teens may assert their independence and satisfy their curiosities. Although teen drinking doesn't always progress into alcoholism, the results can be devastating if it does continue to this point. Helping a teenage alcoholic deal with his or her addiction is difficult and requires a consistent effort.

Instructions

• 1

  Learn about alcoholism. Realize that alcoholism is a disease that features both mental and physical symptoms and consequences. Knowing the signs of alcoholism can also make you aware of worsening behaviors. While you can assist alcoholics, you can't make the decision to quit for them. Understanding these factors can help you combat negative feelings and better assist the teenager.

• 2

  Reinforce the importance of abstinence from drinking. Relay the dangers of underage drinking, including increased risk for irreversible liver damage and dangerous vehicular accidents. Explain that drinking impairs judgment, which can lead to risky behaviors. Use rational dialogue to express concern for his or her future without sounding too much like a textbook. Since teenagers often think of themselves as invincible, getting your point across takes persistence.

• 3

  Give support without becoming an enabler. Provide a nonjudgmental ear whenever the teen needs to vent frustrations. Avoid making light of the alcoholism, as doing so makes it easier for your child to continue drinking. This includes laughing at fictional characters who engage in underage drinking.

• 4

  Brace yourself for passionate appeals and responses. Meet any anger or accusations with firmness and empathy. Avoid falling for guilt trips, which may even include your teen blaming you for his or her alcoholism. Explain that while you will provide assistance, you're not a doormat or scapegoat. Encourage your child to see you as a partner and not an enemy.

• 5

  Suggest and accompany the teen to alternative activities. Redirect energy into constructive outlets to help him or her stay sober. Suitable activities include joining exercise classes, visiting museums and journaling. Avoid going to places that serve alcohol or spots where his or her usual drinking partners frequent. Bring up counseling and support groups as useful alternatives to harmful behaviors.