x
Hide Page
instagram icon

Worried About Someone’s Drinking Habits?

Man sat alone on sofa drinking alcohol. He has a bottle of wine in his hand, an empty wine glass, and a shot glass on the table.

It can be really tough when someone you care about drinks too much alcohol. It can make you feel worried, scared, confused, or even angry.

You might feel like you’re the only one going through this, but you’re not. Many young people experience similar situations. This blog post is here to offer some advice and support if you’re concerned about a family member, carer, or guardian’s drinking habits.

Understanding the impact of alcohol

Alcohol affects people in different ways. Sometimes, someone might seem happy and relaxed after a few drinks, but other times, they might become angry, sad, or unpredictable. This change in behaviour can be unsettling, especially if it happens regularly.

Alcohol is a depressant, meaning it slows down the brain and body. This can lead to poor judgment, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings. In moderation, drinking may be okay, but if someone is drinking excessively, it can significantly impact their physical and mental health.

Man sat alone, looking sat on a sofa in the living room. Her is surrounded by alcohol - empty bottles of beer fill the table and sofa next to him. The man stares dazed into the TV.

Recognising when drinking is a problem

It can be hard to tell when someone’s drinking has become a problem. Some signs to look out for include drinking more often or in larger amounts than usual, becoming secretive about their drinking, experiencing changes in their mood or behaviour after drinking, neglecting responsibilities like work or family, or continuing to drink despite negative consequences.

If you notice a few of these signs, it might be a cause for concern. It’s important to trust your gut feeling and, if you’re worried, to ask for help.

Remembering that it’s not your fault

It’s important to remember that you are not responsible for someone else’s drinking. You can’t control their actions, and you can’t make them stop drinking. It’s not your fault if they drink too much, and it’s not your job to fix the problem. Your focus should be on your own wellbeing and seeking support for yourself.

When you’re dealing with a difficult situation like this, you have to focus on taking care of yourself. This means getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, and finding healthy ways to manage stress. This could include activities like exercise, listening to music, spending time with friends, or taking part in your hobbies. Looking after your physical and mental health will help you cope better with the situation and ensure you have the strength to seek help when you need it. Remember, you deserve support and care.

Lady sat alone on the sofa with her head in her hands. She looks at a glass filled with alcohol. A bottle of vodka is on the table in front of her.

Talking to someone that you trust

Talking about your concerns can be incredibly helpful. Choose someone you trust, such as another family member, a friend, a teacher, a youth worker, or a helpline. Sharing your worries can help you feel less alone and can also provide you with support and advice.

It can be difficult to talk about these things, but remember that you don’t have to deal with this on your own. There are people who want to listen and help. When you talk to someone, try to explain how you’re feeling and what you’re experiencing.

There are many organisations that offer support and resources for young people affected by someone else’s drinking. These organisations can provide information, advice, and counselling. They can also help you understand what’s happening and how to cope with the situation. Here are some suggestions of where to look for help:

  • Al-Anon: Offers support and understanding to the families and friends of dependent drinkers. You can call their confidential helpline on 0800 0086 811.
  • National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACOA): Providing information, advice and support for everyone affected by a parent’s drinking. You can contact their confidential helpline number on 0800 358 3456 or email them at helpline@Nacoa.org.uk.
  • DrinkAware: Run by DrinkAware, Drinkline is a free, confidential helpline for anyone in the UK who is concerned about their own drinking or someone else’s. You can call them on 0300 123 1110.
  • DAN 24/7: DAN 24/7 is the all-Wales drug and alcohol helpline. Whether you’re worried about your own drinking, or someone else’s, DAN 24/7 can offer confidential advice, information, and support. They can also signpost you to local services in your area. You can contact DAN 24/7 by calling their freephone number: 0808 808 2234, or by texting DAN to: 81066. The fact that it is 24/7 means that there is always someone available to listen and offer support, no matter what time of day or night you need help.  

Feeling overwhelmed by what to do next? Talk with Meic! The Meic helpline is available for children and young people across Wales to get free information, advice, and advocacy support from a friendly, trained helpline adviser advocate. Open from 8 am to midnight every day, you can phone, WhatsApp message, text, or chat with us online.