Underage drinking: encourage dialogue about dangers

There is a high chance that teenagers have or will have an encounter with alcohol either through experimenting or through someone else’s drinking.

“As a parent it is your responsibility to keep them safe from underage drinking by teaching them that alcohol is for adult consumption only, and to equip them with the right tools and knowledge to say no to alcohol when they are away from your supervision,” said Naazia Ismail, South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) project manager.

Teens have less physical tolerance to the effects of alcohol, and their brains which are still developing are more susceptible to alcohol-related harm.

The US National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism stated in a 2010 publication that most studies show the benefits from allowing children to drink in the home or controlled environment are non-existent.

According to Sadag, it is an adult’s responsibility to keep communication open with teenagers in order for them to understand the consequences and dangers of underage drinking.

The more open your relationship with your children is, the more likely they will feel comfortable with talking to you about any issues, including alcohol. Listen to them, don’t judge and let them know they can come to you and trust you.

Invest in recreational activities and in spending quality time with your children:

Encourage your teens to take part in activities that develop interests and skills, like hobbies, school events, sports, healthy relationships, and volunteer work.

Know the facts about alcohol. You can’t expect your child to know the risks of alcohol misuse if you don’t have all the information yourself.