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Prevention
By Mayo Clinic staffKnowing and recognizing a family history of alcoholism for you or others is an important step toward seeking treatment before alcohol use or alcohol abuse progresses to alcoholism.
Early intervention is particularly important to prevent alcohol dependence in teenagers. Alcohol use among teens increases dramatically during the high-school years and leads to serious consequences for many teens. Each year in the United States, alcohol-related automobile accidents are a major cause of teen deaths. Alcohol is also often a cause in other teenage deaths, including drownings, suicides and homicides. Teens who drink are more likely to become sexually active, have sex more frequently and engage in risky, unprotected sex than are teens who don't drink.
For young people, the likelihood of addiction depends on the influence of parents, peers and other role models, susceptibility to advertising, how early in life they begin to use alcohol, the psychological need for alcohol, and genetic factors that may predispose them to addiction.
If you have a teenager, be alert to signs and symptoms that may indicate a problem with alcohol:
- Less or no interest in activities and hobbies
- Bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and memory lapses
- Difficulties or changes in relationships with friends, often characterized by joining a new crowd
- Declining grades and problems in school
- Frequent mood changes and defensive behavior
You can help prevent teenage alcohol use. Start by setting a good example with your own alcohol use. Talk openly with your child and spend quality time together, but respect your child's need for independence. Let your child know what behavior you expect — and what the consequences will be if he or she doesn't follow the rules. Make sure your child understands the legal and medical consequences of drinking.
