What to do if your teenager is drinking?
If you’ve never talked to your children about underage drinking, now is a great time to start. Whether they’re 8 or 18, your words as a parent can make a big difference.

If you think one of your kids has already started drinking, it’s even more important to act. Many of the techniques highlighted in Start the Conversation can help to show your children that you care, and to convince them to stop drinking.

How to tell if your child is drinking.

The Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration’s fact sheet is a great resource to help you recognize possible warning signs.
Click here to download

what to do if your teenager is drinking

Warning Signs

These potential indicators of underage drinking may just be a normal part of adolescence. But they may also indicate something more serious, especially if you notice several at once, or if some are very extreme.

  • Mood changes
  • School problems
  • Friend changes
  • A “nothing matters” attitude
  • Physical or mental problems

What to do if your teenager is drinking.

The How To Tell If Your Child Is Drinking Alcohol fact sheet also offers practical information for what to do if your child is drinking — starting with avoiding blame and focusing on getting help for your child.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is an interactive tool that lets you quickly locate substance abuse treatment providers in your local community.

SAMHSA’s National 24 Hour Helpline can provide information and treatment referrals: 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has a list of medical substance abuse service providers throughout the state: Local Management Entities By County.

Alcohol Drug Council of North Carolina advocates for prevention, early interventions, and treatment that includes a system of care.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, speak directly to someone who can relate by calling 1-800-688-4232 (24/7). Your call is completely confidential.

Substance Use Resources

The Substance Use Resources for Adolescents and Young Adults are online resources aimed specifically at adolescents and young adults. Health care providers and youth serving professionals can offer these additional resources to adolescents and young adults looking for additional information, including online resources, support groups, peer networks, helplines, treatment locators, and advocacy opportunities.

Substance Use Resources for Adolescents and Young Adults