Many parents are intimidated by the thought of talking to their teen about alcohol abuse. However, it is a conversation that must be had. Sixty percent of teens have had at least one drink by the time that they are 18. That is why the earlier the conversation is had, the better.
There is no need for you to worry about talking to your teen about alcohol abuse. There are many things that you can do to make this task easier.
Plan Ahead
It is not a good idea to have any important conversation without planning ahead of time. You should review all of the key points that you want to discuss during the conversation. You should also come up with a plan just in case your teen does not take it well.
Additionally, you should tell your teen that you need to have an important conversation with them. You will need to allow them to set the time and place. You do not want to catch your teen off-guard.
Avoid Accusations
It is not a good idea to accuse anyone of doing anything if there is not any evidence to prove it. You do not want to start off the conversation by making accusations. You can ask them if they know someone who regularly uses alcohol. If teens do not feel like they are being accused of something, then they will be more likely to answer the question honestly.
Have a Conversation
Many teens do not want to hear a lecture. They would prefer to have a conversation. Encourage them to ask questions. Both of you will get more out of the conversation.
Be Honest
Your teen may ask about your past or current drinking habits. If you have consumed alcohol before, then you should be honest with them. Your teen may ask a question that you may not know the answer to. You should tell that they you will look it up and give them an answer later.
Discuss the Risks
Many teens drink alcohol because they underestimate the dangers of it. If you explain all of the dangers that are associated with alcohol use, then they will be more likely to abstain from it. You may want to do some research on the risks before you talk to your teen.
Avoid Using Scare Tactics
You want to be honest and tell your teen about the real dangers of alcohol use. However, you do not want to use scare tactics. You should also focus on the benefits that can be reaped from abstaining from alcohol. For example, if your teen stays away from alcohol, then they will have an easier time focusing on their school work and extracurricular activities.
They will also increase their chances of getting into a good college and having a good career. It is just as important for teens to know the benefits of abstaining as it is for them to know the risks.
Destroy Myths
There are a lot of dangerous myths surrounding teenage drinking. For example, many teens believe that they have to drink to be cool and fit in with their peers. They also believe that alcohol makes people happy. That is why it is important to shatter all of the myths.
Encourage Your Teen to be Open
Many teens feel like they cannot talk to their parents. That is why they do many things behind their parents back. You should encourage your teen to be open. The closer teens are to their parents, the less likely they are to drink and use drugs.
Set Boundaries and Expectations
You should tell your teen that drinking will not be tolerated. You should also let them know what the consequences will be if they drink. All teens need rules and boundaries.
Author: Ruben Lopez is a freelance writer from Atlanta, Georgia with a passion for addiction treatment. He is committed to helping those who are in recovery.
