Having an alcoholic parent is stressful on teenaged children. You feel embarrassed by the drinking and don’t want your parent to be in public when drunk. You don’t want your friends to know or to be seen with him in public.
You might get mad because you don’t like what is happening to your parent and to your family. You’re mad because of the financial problems your family has because of the drinking. You get mad when your parent can’t support you at school functions, watch you play baseball, or attend piano recitals. You’re mad because you have to be the grown up around the house and take care of your incapacitated parent or younger siblings.
You feel hurt because of the cruel things your parent says while drunk. Or hurt because you don’t have a normal family life like your friends do. You feel hurt that you can’t hang out with your friends because you are worried about your parent — so you hurry home.
You are scared because of the yelling and fighting at home. You are afraid that your parent will hurt a family member. You are scared that your parent might get injured in a car accident. You are scared that your parent will lose his job which could affect being able to pay the house payment, buy groceries, and clothing.
What can you do about the problem?
First acknowledge that there is a problem. Don’t try to hide the fact that your parent has a drinking problem. Talk to a friend, a counselor at school, or a teacher. Acknowledging there is a problem will be a huge relief.
Tell yourself that you are not the cause of the drinking problem – because you aren’t! Tell yourself that you are not responsible for how much they drink nor can you stop it.
Find a support. Confide in a close friend. Talk to your favorite teacher. Learn about the resources the Alcoholics Anonymous have for people living with alcoholics.