Talking to someone who already is using alcohol can be difficult. You want to help the person but you also want to keep the trust and bond that you have with that person. When you are talking to a child or your child about alcohol use and they are using alcohol, there are a few things that you need to know and do. Here are some tips for talking to a kid who uses alcohol about alcohol.
First off, let them know that you love them. Tell them that you want the best for them. Show them too. There is a big difference between just telling them and showing them. They have to feel the encouragement and love. Tell them that whatever they do, you will still love them. Tell them that you may have to punish them for things they do wrong, but that you are doing it because you love them and that you are teaching them that there are consequences for their actions.
Tell your child about the dangers of alcohol. Chances are by this time they have already seen the pictures of destroyed livers and people who have become drunks, but they probably don’t believe that it will happen to them. People who are addicted to something or are trying something that is dangerous are usually in denial about it ever really affecting them. They don’t see the whole picture and often refuse to. If you can, have your child’s liver tested or have them do some tests to see what is really happening to them. Tell them that the younger they start drinking, the more likely they are to become addicted to alcohol. Let them know your standards. If you are ok with a little drinking, let them know that it’s only ok at a certain age and any other rules you have. If you aren’t ok with drinking explain to them why. Don’t be vague but tell them exactly how you feel.
If your child or a child you know is drinking, you need to get help for them. It’s extremely dangerous for children to drink. Often, they try to get alcohol in illegal ways because they have to have it. Don’t just assume that because you don’t let your child have alcohol that they aren’t drinking. They will get it from somewhere else if they want it. There are tons of rehab centers or other programs for children who need help with an addiction.
If you think that your child or another child is drinking, watch him or her very closely. Make sure that you are paying attention to everything. If you suspect anything, get help from someone else. Don’t try to tackle it alone. There are tons of anonymous ways to get help and it’s professional help too. Children can’t afford to have someone try to help but it not really work. If you are dealing with a child that is drinking, you have to fix the problem the first time. Remember, the younger a child starts drinking, the more likely they are to become drunks and addicted to alcohol.
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