Talking to your teen about alcohol

Iowa ranks above the national average for underage drinking.(1) Many youth begin to use alcohol during their teen years. This often puts themselves or their friends at risk. It's important to talk to your child about the risks and harms associated with drinking alcohol. If you're unsure how to start the conversation with your child about drinking, we can help.

Signs of alcohol use in teens

If you notice several of these signs at the same time or they are extreme, it's time to reach out for help.(2)

• Mood changes: flare-ups of temper, irritability, and defensiveness
• School problems: poor attendance, low grades, and/or recent disciplinary action
• Rebellion against family rules
• Friend changes: switching friends and a reluctance to let you get to know the new friends
• A "nothing matters" attitude. This could be a sloppy appearance, lack of involvement in former interests, or low energy
• Alcohol presence: finding it in your child's room or backpack, or smelling alcohol on his or her breath
• Memory lapses, poor concentration, bloodshot eyes, lack of coordination, or slurred speech

Underage drinking risks

There are many potential negative outcomes from using alcohol underage. It's important to know how underage drinking impacts youth, such as: (3,4)

• Increase risk of using other substances
• Declining performance in school
• Alcohol-related injuries, accidents and car crashes
• Alcohol poisoning or alcohol overdose
• Alcohol-related violence or assault
• Lasting brain damage and problems with memory, judgement and thinking skills
• Increased anxiety and depression

Talking to your child about alcohol

It's important to talk to your child about alcohol to help reduce their risk of underage drinking. When having the conversation, remember to let your child talk and listen to them. Ask them questions about their views on alcohol or if they have peers or friends who drink alcohol.

Know the facts about underage drinking. Be prepared to talk to your child. Emphasize that it's never safe to drink alcohol under the age of 21.

Set clear rules and expectations for your child about their alcohol use. Clear expectations help children and teens make informed decisions. They may be less likely to engage in risky behaviors when there are clear expectations.

Have a young adult drinking alcohol? Get information and resources with Help for College Students.

Resources