If you've noticed a change in your child's behavior that doesn’t seem linked to typical stresses or growing independence, it could be a sign of something deeper. Maybe their plans seem vague, they get agitated when asked for details, or their behavior shifts when they come home. Even if you don’t see clear signs, trust your instincts and keep asking questions. Open communication, consistent monitoring, and clear boundaries can help prevent underage drinking.
Research shows that a strong, open relationship with a parent is key to healthy child development. Start talking to your child about alcohol and drugs before they are exposed to them.
Young people are more likely to listen when they know you support them. By explaining why you don’t want them to drink or use drugs, you can help them make better choices. Approach the conversation with care and openness.
Here’s how to communicate effectively with your child:
- Disapprove of underage drinking: Over 80% of kids say their parents are the biggest influence on whether they drink. Be clear about your disapproval.
- Show you care about their health: Reinforce that your concern is about their happiness and safety.
- Be a trusted source of information: Ensure they get reliable information about alcohol and drugs from you, not from unreliable sources.
- Pay attention to their actions: Subtly show you're aware of what they're doing. Kids are less likely to engage in risky behaviors when they know someone is paying attention.
- Build refusal skills: Teach your child strategies to avoid peer pressure, like using a code word or practicing how to say “no.” Don’t worry about one big talk—have multiple brief conversations.
Resources
- 1Children of Alcoholics
- 2Communicating with Your Child: When You Suspect Substance Use
- 3Reducing Your Child’s Risk for Substance Use: Tips for Parents
- 4Reducing Youth Access to Alcohol
- 5Starting the School Year: Reducing the Risk of Underage Drinking
- 6Supporting Your Loved One in Treatment
- 7 Youth Substance Use: Signs and Symptoms
Services
Mental Health Program Directory
The Mental Health Program Directory provides a single place for North Dakota citizens to search for mental health services that meet their needs. This registry allows users to: Search by location and other details View program information, including program name, address, and phone number.
Public Behavioral Health Clinics
North Dakota's Health and Human Services agency operates eight regional human service centers that provide behavioral health services to North Dakotans. Each center serves a designated multi-county area.
Minor in Possession (MIP) Education Program
Early intervention is an important piece of the behavioral health continuum of care and helps to reduce the risk of harmful behaviors such as drug and alcohol use. Research shows that individuals who start drinking before the age of 15 are four times more likely than individuals who start drinking at the age of 21 to meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder at some point in their lives.