Support for Parents and Mentors

Underage drinking prevention resources to help you start the conversation with your child

It Takes a Community to Stop Underage Drinking

Knowing how to connect with the children in your life and keep the lines of communication open about alcohol can feel overwhelming. At Talk it Out NC, we believe that preventing underage drinking is everyone’s job, it takes our communities — working together — to help our young people stay safe and make healthy decisions about alcohol.

Steps We Can All Take to Reduce the Risk of Underage Drinking

There are many factors that contribute to a young person’s decision to drink. From genetics and personality type to social factors and maturity levels, there’s no one-size-fits-all prevention strategy. But, parents, guardians, teachers, mentors, coaches, and community leaders can play a significant role in prevention.

Top 3 Things Individuals Can Do

Set clear standards and guidelines. Be clear on your rules and enforce them.
Be a positive role model. If you drink, drink responsibly; stay away from high-risk situations, and never give alcohol to a minor.
Support your children and teenagers and give them space to grow. Stay engaged with them — encourage independence but set age-appropriate limits. Make it easy for your young people to share about their lives, and let your players know you are there to provide a listening ear.

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Recognize The Warning Signs Of Underage Drinking In Young People And Teens

Unusual changes in mood, including irritability, sudden flares of temper, and defensive words or actions
Slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, stumbling, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating
Rebellion against school rules, family rules, or social conventions
Sudden switch to friends who are unknown to parents or guardians
Abnormal problems in school, such as low grades, attendance and tardiness issues, and disciplinary action
Low energy, lack of involvement and motivation, and a generally sloppy appearance · Presence of alcohol in a child’s room, backpack, locker, vehicle, or other places of importance
Smell alcohol on their breath

What If Someone You Know is Drinking Underage?

If you discover that your child — or another young person you know — is drinking, there is help available. You are not alone. SAMHSA has a library of parent resources that can help you talk with your teenager about alcohol and the risks they’re facing. Also available from SAMSHA is a complete Student Assistance Program Series that will equip your school staff or youth development leaders with underage drinking resources.

Other Resources You Can Count On

The Alcohol / Drug Council of North Carolina (ADCNC) helps to reduce substance abuse through prevention programs, early interventions, and access to treatment
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
The Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine offers a complete directory of online resources designed to help adolescents and young adults
Our Talkin’ it Out video archive has experts from a wide range of backgrounds who offer strategies, research, and insights on how to prevent underage drinking.

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If you or someone you know is struggling with substance misuse, call Alcohol / Drug Council of North Carolina (ADCNC) at 1-800-688-4232 and speak with a representative directly. Your call will be completely confidential.

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