Posted on May 22, 2009

By Suzanne Kane

Ads for alcohol are everywhere – beer and wine commercials on TV, scotch, vodka and whiskey and other hard liquor products in glossy magazine pieces, billboards, point of purchase displays in grocery stores – it’s inescapable. Is it any wonder that teens, already risk-takers and eager experimenters, gravitate toward drinking?

Parents, educators and concerned friends and relatives should be on the lookout for indications that teens are getting in over their head with alcohol. While the following may be signs of trouble with drinking, they can also be indicative of other problems. A doctor can determine if there is any physical cause for the signs. Evaluation by a mental health professional or psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent behavior is recommended if several of the following warning signs are evident in teens.

• Physical changes – The most obvious, and visible, changes in teens who may be abusing or experimenting with alcohol are physical changes. Teens may display red and glazed eyes, have a persistent cough, numerous physical complaints and fatigue.

• Emotional changes – Troubling changes in emotions in teens who may be in trouble with alcohol include depression, irresponsible behavior, poor judgment, low self-esteem, irritability, personality change, lack of interest and sudden mood swings.

• Problems in school – Slipping grades, tardiness, skipping school, disciplinary problems, lack of interest, and negative attitude may show up in teens that are in trouble with alcohol.

• Social difficulties — If you notice a tendency toward sloppiness in teens’ appearance, not caring how they dress or look or a radical shift toward different styles of dress, careless grooming, changes in musical taste toward more extreme, violent or dark-themed styles, problems with the law, or new friends who have no or less interest in normal work and/or school activities – these may also indicate an existing or growing problem with alcohol.

• Family problems – Teens who become involved in drinking often revert to clandestine activities, shunning family, breaking family rules, and starting arguments. Since this is so close to home, it’s wise for parents to pay attention to any noticeable problems that their teen exhibits in their own environment.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMSA) National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI) have a wealth of information online to assist teens and parents to recognize and combat signs of alcohol and drug abuse. In addition to the general trouble signs listed above, NCADI lists other specific indicators of potential alcohol use and abuse which may include:

• Hiding alcohol, planning to drink in advance, drinking alone

• Frequent hangovers

• Lying about drinking or how much alcohol is being consumed

• Blackouts, inability to remember things that were said or done the day or night before while drinking

• Needing to drink more to get high

• Taking risks, including sexual risks

• Drinking and driving

What you can do

Once you recognize the trouble signs, it’s vital that you do something about it. Try to talk with your teen about the dangers and consequences of alcohol. Take them to the doctor for a physical examination to rule out any medical problems. If warranted, insist they see a child and adolescent psychiatrist or mental health professional for a complete evaluation and potential counseling. Be loving parents, be firm and be patient. These changes didn’t occur overnight, and they will take some time to overcome.

Remember, the family is the teen’s most important ally and resource. You can make a profound difference in your teen’s life by your own example and constant support.