The U.S. Surgeon General surmises about 5,000 kids under 21 die every year as a result of underage drinking. Alcohol poisoning, car crashes, homicides, and suicides are among the increased risks teens face when they’ve been drinking. While many parents of teens don’t think their children would ever drink, the truth is, most teens experiment with alcohol. It’s important to know the warning signs that your teen has been drinking.
Your teen carrying a duffel, tote bag, or even a school backpack. They may be transporting alcohol from your home to the party.Hushed tones and whispers when your teen uses the phone. Of course, in today’s world, many teens are communicating via text or social media as well, so monitor your teen’s accounts. Evasive answers to questions about their activities. If your teen hesitates when you ask what they’re doing, it could be a sign they’re trying to think of a good cover story.Asking to spend the night. If your teen insists they want to stay over at a friend’s house, it may mean they don’t want to come home under the influence.
Any of these signals are cause for you to check further by talking to your teen about your suspicions. You can always check with other parents as well. If your teen is stumbling, slurring their speech, or acting out of character, these are also signs that there has been alcohol or drug use. Be on the lookout for signs a hangover in the morning, too. If your teen suddenly gets the “flu” after being out with friends, they may be trying to disguise a hangover. Here are some signs your teen may have consumed alcohol:
Lowered inhibitionsPoor concentrationSlow reflexesSlow reaction timeReduced coordinationSlower brain activitySensations and perceptions that are less clearSlurred speechSleepinessAltered emotionsPoor visionSleepiness and disruption of sleeping patternsIncreased urine productionMore blood flow to skin/s surfaceLower core body temperature
Serious Signs
According to the Surgeon General, when teens drink, they tend to drink a lot at one time. Teens party with others and socially drink so they drink less often than adults. But when teens do drink, they consume more alcohol than adults. On average, young people have about five drinks on a single occasion. This is called binge drinking, a very dangerous way of drinking that can lead to serious problems and even death.
VomitingUncontrolled urinationUncontrolled defecationBreathing difficultiesPassing out
Behavioral Changes
Experiencing school problems, poor attendance, low grades, and/or recent disciplinary action Rebelling against family rules Lying, breaking curfew, or stealing Switching friends, along with a reluctance to let you get to know the new friends Having a sloppy appearance Lacking involvement in former interests
Emotional Changes
Exhibiting mood changes, flare-ups, irritability, and defensivenessHaving a “nothing matters” attitude
Mental Changes
Having memory lapsesHaving poor concentration
If you see these signs combined with catching your teen drinking, seek professional help for them immediately. Your teen may need outpatient counseling or perhaps, even residential treatment.
