Tips for helping a loved one reduce the risks of alcohol and questions from parents with teens
NEWSLETTER
Resources to Help You Help Your Loved One
Alcohol is one of the most regularly used substances in the U.S. and it can have serious health consequences – like increasing the risk of 7 kinds of cancer and contributing to heart disease. Here are some tips to help a loved one minimize the risks of alcohol use as well as answers to questions from parents of teens.
Minimizing Alcohol Risks
Reducing alcohol use is always a step toward better health. If a loved one in your life is not ready to eliminate it completely, here are ways they can lower their risk:
Have drinks with less alcohol
Paying attention to the alcohol content of the beverages can help.
Consider drinking a light beer or alternating alcoholic drinks with mocktails.
Take advantage of abstinence days
There are times during the year that have been popularized for abstinence, such as “Dry January” or “Sober October.”
- Taking some time away from drinking is always healthy and it can help your loved one reevaluate their relationship with alcohol.
- Offer doing it with them for added support.
- Many people who cut back during these times find that when they do return to drinking, they do so at lower frequency and intensity.
Limit or eliminate the alcohol in your home
If you’re concerned about a loved one’s drinking, it may be best to avoid having alcohol in your house. Some families may allow alcohol in the house for a holiday or special occasion, but will dispose of what’s left afterward.
View More Harm Reduction Strategies for Alcohol
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If you are concerned about a loved one’s substance use, visit our support services ([link removed] ) .
Parents’ Most Frequently Asked Questions About Alcohol
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions that parents with teens often have about alcohol:
“Isn’t it better for parents to teach children how to drink ‘responsibly’ by allowing them to drink at home under supervision?”
Expert Answer: Research shows that drinking at home with parental approval is associated with higher-risk drinking, heavy alcohol use and alcohol problems later in life. Allowing kids to drink in the home sends mixed messages, minimizing the risks of underage alcohol use.
“Is it hypocritical of me to tell my kids not to drink when they know I drank at their age?”
Expert Answer: As a parent, you want to do all you can to protect your child. Many of us didn’t wear sunscreen growing up, but we now know that it significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer. The same is true of alcohol – we now know more than ever about protecting our kids from the effects of alcohol.
“What are the risks associated with underage drinking?”
Expert Answer: Driving under the influence is a risk that is top of mind for parents. There are other risks to consider as well – the younger people start drinking, the higher the risk for developing alcohol use disorder later in life. Adults who began drinking before they turned 15 are 4 times more likely* to report having alcohol use disorder in the past year compared to those who waited until 21 or later to begin drinking.
Find new statistics, facts, and research-backed guidance in our our recently updated alcohol guide:
Alcohol Guide: What Families Need to Know
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*Source: NSDUH ([link removed] )
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