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Changes in interests, behaviors, and emotions are common in teenagers. However there are certain indicators that may signal high risk behavior that includes binge drinking.
Have you noticed any of the following behaviors in your teen?
- Getting home late or frequently breaking curfew
- Hanging out with a new or different group of friends and resisting your request to get to know those new friends
- Noticeable change in attitude/noticeable lack of energy
- Feelings of stress or added stress
- Physical changes (bloodshot eyes, smell of alcohol on breath, slurred speech, etc.)
- Grades dropping
- Sleeping in extra late
- Attending parties frequently
- Keeping alcohol in his/her backpack or bedroom
- Becoming persistent or intense about going out with friends
- Feeling ill
- Discussing drinking or alcohol in social media posts
- Purchasing or frequently carrying items to cover up signs or effects of alcohol use (mouthwash, eye drops, breath mints, sports drinks, pain medicine, etc.)
- Taking money from your wallet or purse without permission
- Missing alcohol from your home (refrigerator, cabinet)
If some of these behaviors describe your teen there may be a chance he or she is drinking. If you believe your teen is engaging in binge drinking, review the Action Plan you and your teen can use together to find ways he or she can start avoiding alcohol.