YOUTH DRINKING
HOW TO TELL IF YOUR CHILD IS DRINKING?
WARNING SIGNS
Although the following signs may indicate a problem with alcohol or other drugs, some also reflect normal growing pains. Experts believe that a drinking problem is more likely if you notice several of these signs at the same time, if they occur suddenly, or if some of them are extreme in nature.
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Mood changes: flare-ups of temper, irritability, and defensiveness
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School problems: poor attendance, low grades, and/or recent disciplinary action
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Rebellion against family rules
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Friend changes: switching friends and a reluctance to let you get to know the new friends
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A “nothing matters” attitude: sloppy appearance, a lack of involvement in former interests, and general low energy
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Alcohol presence: finding it in your child’s room or backpack or smelling alcohol on his or her breath
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Physical/mental problems: memory lapses, poor concentration, bloodshot eyes, lack of coordination, or slurred speech
Finding Help
It is hard for most parents to believe that their child might be caught up in underage alcohol use and in need of professional help. Do not feel bad if you did not see the warning signs until your child was in trouble or until someone told you about the problem. When most parents find out about their child’s underage drinking, they feel shocked and stunned and wonder where they went wrong.
