Parents and alcohol

Lots of people drink alcohol sometimes. But it can be scary when someone drinks too much or their behaviour changes. If you're worried about your parent's drinking, we can help.

drinking too much

Alcohol can affect people in lots of different ways. And drinking every now and then can be okay when it doesn't negatively affect how someone behaves.

It can be hard to accept or spot if someone has a drinking problem. Some things you might notice are:

  • they're not able to control how much they drink
  • their behaviour changes when they're drunk
  • you or your siblings aren't looked after because someone is drinking
  • they get aggressive or violent after drinking
  • friends coming to your house or seeing your parent
  • your parents try to keep their drinking a secret
  • they shout at you or say things to upset you when they're drunk
  • drinking becomes more important to them than other things in their life.

It's not your fault if your parents drink too much and you're not alone. We're here to help.

5 things you should know

  • It's not your fault if your parents or carers drink.
  • You don't have to keep their drinking a secret.
  • It's not down to you to stop them drinking.
  • You have the right to feel safe and loved at home.
  • You don't have to cope alone.

coping when your parents drink

why do my parents drink?

what happens if you tell someone?

Every family and situation is different, but telling someone can be the best way to get support.

If you tell a teacher, doctor or a professional you trust, they may need to talk to someone else to help you get the right support.

Sometimes the police or social services might get involved. They'll want to protect you and support your parents. And they should talk to you about what's happening.

It can be scary but the police or social services won't want to take you away from your home unless it's too dangerous to live there.

other places that can help

Get advice from:

  • Nacoa - Information, support and advice for anyone who's worried about a parent drinking
  • Alateen - Offers meetings for 12-17 year old relatives of alcoholics
  • Living with Alcohol - A Newsround special on alcohol