A season known for barbecues, pool days, flip flops and family vacations, summer is a popular time for activities with friends and family. But with all the parties and picnics also comes the unlimited supply of alcoholic beverages – often tempting children and teens.
Seasonal Adolescent Alcohol Abuse
Each summer, over 11,000 kids try alcohol for the first time during the months of June and July. Instead of preventing your children from going to summer events altogether, take the chance to openly talk about the dangers of alcohol abuse. Children respect what their parents have to say when it comes to serious matters such as alcohol, much more so than you may realize.
Negative Consequences Of Teen Alcohol Abuse
Underage drinking isn’t a new epidemic. For decades, it’s been a serious issue for the parents of each upcoming generation. Unfortunately, many have forgotten the extreme risks of alcohol abuse. It can turn a child or adolescent’s bright future and life goals upside down in an instant. In fact, studies have attributed underage drinking to:
- – Academic difficulties
- – Unprotected or unwanted sexual activity or involvement
- – Drug use
- – Injury or death from an accident
- – Changes in brain development
Warning Signs Of Alcohol Abuse
If you’re worried that your child may be abusing alcohol, there are common physical and behavior changes to look for. Some of the warning signs of alcohol abuse include:
- – Mood swings
- – Bloodshot eyes
- – Lack of coordination
- – Glassy eyes
- – Poor academic performance and attendance
- – Changes in groups of friends
Educating Children And Teens On Drug Abuse
More than 80 percent of children say parents are the leading influencers in their decision to drink or not. Underage alcohol abuse prevention begins with parents talking to their children about the long-lasting consequences of addiction, as well as teaching them responsible decision-making skills.
The Office of National Drug Control Policy created the acronym SUMMER to help parents start the conversation about the risks associated with alcohol abuse:
- – Set rules
- – Understand and communicate
- – Monitor activities
- – Make sure you stay involved
- – Encourage involvement of summer activities
- – Reserve time for family
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.