Are you worried about how much your parents drink?
When your parents or carers drink alcohol within the recommended sensible limits that's OK. But for some people drinking can become a problem when it gets out of control like regular binge-drinking or alcoholism (they can’t stop drinking alcohol).
It’s understandable to feel sad, confused, embarrassed or angry if a parent or carer is drinking too much.
There are many possible reasons why someone may have a problem with alcohol, but sometimes the causes are not known. Sometimes the adult may blame others for his or her drinking. Remember, you are not the cause of their drinking problem, no matter what is going on at home or what they may say to you.
Getting support
You can’t control your family members drinking and you will not be able to stop it. However, support is available for people living in Hertfordshire who drink too much. They must want to get help and it can take sometime to stop drinking but people can get better.
If you are worried or embarrassed about someone’s drinking it can be difficult to ask for help and advice but your parents or carers should be looking after you. It's their job to keep you safe and that may not be happening if they are drinking.
If they have a problem with drinking, then you should talk to someone you trust e.g. youth worker, teacher, other family member. They may be able to suggest ways to find help for your parent.
Other sources of help:
- www.coap.co.uk - Information and advice for those affected by someone else’s drug use including alcohol.