Article Summary: Many people start drinking at a young age. There are multiple reasons to why they do it. As you grow older, this may become a serious problem. Alcoholism strongly affects not only you, but those around you as well. Trying to cope with an alcoholic parent is very difficult and can cause you to feel sad, frustrated and/or embarrassed. It is important to remember that a persons drinking is never your fault, so never blame yourself. Alcoholism is a serious disease that only goes away if the person abusing alcohol wants it to. It is hard enough being a teen, and on top of that having to deal with an alcoholic parent can make you feel unstable. Although you may be ashamed of your situation, admitting there is a problem is the first step. It is important to be aware of what's going on and to never be afraid to ask for help.
Connections to the class: In health class we have talked about alcohol and drug abuse. A lot of people are unaware of how serious of a problem this is. No matter what people say, this is a disease and can be treated with therapy. We also have seen how situations like these can break families apart and cause depression. This is a lifestyle disease, and it is up to you to decide if you want to live this way or not.
Discussion Question: What would you do to help a friend going through something similar to this? What's a way of coping?
If I had a friend going through a situation like this I would be very supportive and try to take them out to distract them. Most importantly, I would make them feel comfortable. If things were to get serious to the point in which my friend is in danger, I would convince them into asking for help, otherwise I would get help for them. A way of coping would be to look at the positive side, and to be open to receiving help.
ReplyDeleteIf I had a friend struggling to cope with a parent who is struggling through an alcohol problem, I would first tell them that what their parent does is not their fault, that their parent doesn't drink because they're a bad child. I would also just be there for them, to lend them an open ear and a shoulder to cry on if necessary. If they were in a dangerous situation I would try to get them into a safer environment, even if it meant having them stay over at my house or another friend's house.
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