Students, including young teens to young adults, may engage in alcohol consumption. Some people believe there’s little harm in early exposure to alcohol. Yet, it can lead to health complications and a higher risk for engaging in addictive behaviors later in life. If you suspect alcohol abuse in your son or daughter, seeking treatment from Bayview Recovery may be an essential step. Contact our treatment center today at 855.478.3650 to learn more about the treatment options available.

How Does Alcohol Abuse Occur in Students?

Access to alcohol is not hard for most students. Many parents have some amount of alcohol in the home. It is also possible to find other adults willing to purchase alcohol for teens for various reasons. Underage drinking, then, is not uncommon. It can happen at parties and in dorm rooms, but it also can occur right in your home without your knowledge. Because it is accessible, parents should recognize the risks of alcohol abuse in their students.

How Do You Know Your Student Is Engaging in Alcohol Abuse?

Many students using alcohol do not have obvious signs of use unless you see them intoxicated. Because alcohol’s effect wears off within a matter of hours, it can be hard to spot it in your teen. A drink here or there is hard to notice. However, repeated use and the development of alcohol abuse becomes more evident because there are physical and emotional signs such as:

• A drop in grades or losing focus in school
• A new group of friends, especially ditching other friends
• Lack of direction, irresponsibility, and hiding activities more frequently
• Social isolation, including drinking alone
• Intense mood swings, physical pain, headaches, and insomnia when not using

For parents who have a teen at a college dorm, it may be more noticeable when they come home for a break that they are using alcohol at a dangerous level. For example, they may struggle with an inability to stay home and connect with family, making excuses to leave. They may also look different with weight loss, sunken eyes, and a pale look. Many students who consume alcohol at a high rate also are malnourished, leading to a wide range of health problems such as headaches, stomach pain, and digestive issues.

What Can You Do About Alcohol Abuse in Students?

When you notice underage drinking or substance abuse signs like these, talk to your student about what’s happening. Often, experts can treat alcoholism effectively when a person is ready to make that happen. Talking to your son or daughter to find out what’s occurring enables them to open up. If alcoholism occurs, along with dependence, that student may be unable to stop using independently. They may be so dependent that not using is impossible to them. By reaching out to them and providing a way for them to get help, they may decide to get help.

Get Treatment at Bayview Recovery

Bayview Recovery can help. With a comprehensive alcohol abuse treatment program, we can help your son or daughter to stop their dependence and start on a path towards healing. Our team provides one-on-one support and guidance to you, as a parent, along the way. The first step is to have a consultation and assessment completed. Learn more about our programs, including:

• Intensive outpatient program
• Partial hospitalization program
• Men’s drug rehab
• Women’s drug rehab
• Medication-assisted therapy
• Extended care program

From teens to young adults, the risks associated with alcohol abuse are numerous, but acting now may ensure they remain treatable. At Bayview Recovery, we offer a comprehensive treatment program for substance abuse. That treatment can open the door for opportunities for brain and body healing, as well as healing relationships and mending futures. Learn more by calling 855.478.3650 or connect with us online today.