Adolescent Alcoholism
Adolescent Alcohol Abuse

There's no easy way to figure out if your adolescent has a teen alcoholism problem. 

As you'll see, many of the signs and symptoms of teen alcohol abuse can also be considered as typical adolescent behavior.

Remember, your intuition is your best parenting tool. You know you child better than anyone else, so if you think your child has changed in some way she or he probably has.

Signs And Symptoms of Teen Alcoholism:

• Scruffy personal appearance.
  
  

• Red, flushed cheeks or face.
  
  

• Chewing gum or mints to cover up breath.
  
  

• Heavy use of over-the-counter preparations to reduce eye reddening, nasal irritation, or bad breath.
  
  

• Frequently breaks curfew.
  
  

• Avoiding eye contact.
  
  

• Locked doors.
  
  

• Secretive phone calls.
  
  

• Reckless driving, car accidents or unexplained dents in the car.
  
  

• Change in relationships with family members or friends.
  
  

• Mood changes or emotional instability.
  
  

• Unusually tired.
  
  

• Silent, uncommunicative.
  
  

• Makes endless excuses.
  
  

• Unable to speak intelligibly, slurred speech, or rapid-fire speech.
  
  

• Truancy or loss of interest in schoolwork.
  
  

• Failure to fulfill responsibilities at school or work.
  
  

• Sudden or dramatic weight gain or loss.
  
  

• Depression.
  
  

• Disappearance of money or valuables
  
   

However, a word of warning, adolescents often go through phases, phases in which their behavior may well change. Be careful not to accuse your child of drinking unless you have good reason to do so.

All teenagers experiment at some stage and this is a normal part of growing up.

It is not normal, though, for an adolescent to display the signs outlined above over a prolonged period of time.

Trust your intuition - do not be governed by the list above, it is after all, just a guide.

It never hurts to just ask your children about their experiences with or opinions about alcohol use. Make sure you reassure your children that you're looking out for them, and that you only want the best for their future.

In the case of adolescent alcoholism, don't be afraid to err on the side of caution. Teaming up with professionals to help your teen can be the best way to make sure he or she has a healthy future.

For more information on using the services of professional to help you with an adolescent with alcohol problems, read alcoholism intervention.

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