I. Don’t threaten, scream, or overreact.
II. Don’t accept getting high or drunk as “normal.”
III. Don’t confront the adolescent when he/she is high or drunk.
IV. Don’t blame or make excuses for the person abusing alcohol
or drugs.
V. Don’t patronize or condone their abnormal behavior.
VI. Don’t give up the ship and accept the adolescent as a loser.
There are no hopeless cases. Chances of recovery are better
than average with appropriate treatment and initial
motivation is not a prerequisite.
I. Do talk to the adolescent only after effects on intoxication
have worn off.
II. Do express your concern, love, and willingness to help.
III. Do allow the adolescent to experience the consequences
of his/her behavior, even though these consequences may
be painful or embarrassing.
IV. Do use community resources to become knowledgeable
about alcoholism and chemical dependency.
V. Do become involved with ‘Families Anonymous’ and/or
Al-Anon in your community.
VI. Do seek help from professionals specifically trained in
alcoholism and chemical dependency.
