What is alcohol?
Alcohol is a depressant drug that slows down the messages between the brain and the body. It causes more harm in communities than all illegal drugs.
It is important to know there are a number of factors that impact how a young person might experience a drug, such as their location, gender, size, mood and if other drugs, alcohol or medication has been taken.
UNDERSTANDING:
Understanding more about why a young person might use alcohol can help guide future conversations with them. Young people who use alcohol might do so to have fun, improve their mood, because it is easily accessible or to feel confident in social settings.
While a young person may use for many reasons, sometimes drugs can have unintended side effects.
Here are some ways to support a young person who might have had too much Alcohol.
- Stay calm and reassure them that you are there to support them
- Support them to move to a safe place where they are comfortable and sitting down
- If the young person is vomiting ensure that they are lying on their side
- Monitor them closely if they are being sick until this has stopped
- Provide them with care and support the following day to manage any hangover they might be experiencing
- If a young person has lost consciousness and is non-responsive it is important to seek medical support or call 000.
Check out these articles to understand how to best support your young person
Understanding adolescent development in relation to drug use ADF
Risk taking behaviours and adolescents Headspace
Importance of peer relationship headspace
How to start a conversation about drug use with someone you are concerned about YoDAA video
We know families have a lot of questions about substance use. Reach out to YoDAA help better understand and support your young person.
Get help now
YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact 9am -8pm Monday to Friday.