Support for Parents and Mentors

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.

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.

• 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

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.

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