When Friends & Family Use & Abuse / Question
Published: September 28, 2004
Dear TeenHealthFX,
My mother is an alcoholic. She gets drunk pretty much every night. It really annoys me and sometimes I find myself saying mean things to her because I get so angry. My family members know what goes on and they do their best to help me, but it still hurts to see her drunk. I don't even like to invite friends over because I know she'll be drunk and it'll be embarrassing. I've tried talking to her about it, but she gets mad. This has been going on sine I was young, and now my mom's engaged to a really great guy, but she still drinks even though there's nothing bad going on in her life. I'm at a loss as to what I can do to get her to stop. I love her. Please help.
Signed: Mom Is Alcoholic - What Can I Do?
Dear Mom Is Alcoholic - What Can I Do?,
You are not alone with this problem. Please check out TeenHealthFX's answer to Child Of A Drinker for our advice on what you can do. You feel like you're at a loss because you are right, you are not able to make your mother stop drinking. We know this sounds frustrating but only your mother can change her behavior.
One thing that you can do is to take care of yourself by attending Alateen a support group for teens affected by alcoholism, and also accepting the help that the rest of your family has to offer you. Also, very often schools have support groups during the school day. Check with your counselor or a teacher to find out if your school has one for you.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Among male drivers between 15 and 20 years of age who were involved in fatal crashes in 2005, 38% were speeding at the time of the crash and 24% had been drinking.
