Higher tolerance (requiring more alcohol to feel the effect) Inability to follow through with responsibilities and obligations Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they don’t drink Secretive about drinking or hides alcohol Inability to quit drinking Frequent binge drinking Physical injury or illness Blackouts Impulsive behavior Inability to cope with stressors Spending more time with others who drink while avoiding those who don’t Dismissive when others talk about their drinking Legal consequences from drinking, such as a DUI

If you’re upset with your parent while they are drunk, remove yourself from the situation. Say, “Let’s not discuss this now. I’m going to leave and we can talk tomorrow. ”

It’s difficult to accept difficult family situations. However, it’s impossible for you to change your parent’s behavior. Do what you can to ease tensions by being a good listener, finding negotiations, and respecting your family members. [3] X Research source

People who suffer from addiction may hide behind illness to control the behavior of those who want to help them. This enables them to continue doing what they’ve been doing.

If you feel like your parent jeopardizes your children’s safety, say that they are not allowed to babysit for the children or to drink in your home under any circumstance. Avoid interacting with your parent while they are drunk. Make all family gatherings alcohol-free. If your parent tends to drink at a certain time of day, avoid visits or phone calls after a certain time.

You can talk to your parent about how their drinking affects you. State your feelings and perhaps describe a particular incident that worried you and that had clear and visible consequences. [6] X Research source

For example, alcohol and aspirin can cause bleeding in the stomach and intestines, alcohol and antihistamines can cause increased drowsiness, and pain killers paired with alcohol can cause liver damage.

You did not cause your parent’s drinking problem and you cannot solve it for them.

Journal your feelings about your parent. You may wish to write a letter to your parent detailing how their drinking affects you and what emotions you feel. You may want to write the letter and process your feelings, then decide not to send it.

Have activities that you enjoy that you do regularly. This can include engaging a hobby, starting a yoga practice, or reading a book. Make time for yourself. Do some meditation, go for a daily walk, or savor a cup of tea in the morning. [12] X Research source Take a break to help you put things in perspective.

Confide in a sibling or close friend. It’s okay to talk to someone and it doesn’t mean you’re being disloyal to your parent.

If you have difficulty meeting friends, try volunteering. It’s a great way to meet people with similar interests as you and can provide an environment to meet people and get to know one another.

You may choose to get inpatient therapy, like going to a recovery center, or do outpatient treatment, which might include seeing a therapist and/or medical doctor. If you are an alcoholic, then inpatient care may be the best choice. You will need to detox all of the alcohol out of your system, which can be harmful if done at home without medical care. A typical inpatient stay for detox is 5-7 days, depending on the person’s needs. For more information, check out How to Overcome Alcoholism.

Some support groups to consider include Adult Children of Alcoholics or Al-Anon Family Groups. If you seek treatment for your own issues with alcohol, look for support groups or group therapies through your doctor, clinic, or program. Some of these groups are run by licensed professionals, which could help your healing.

To find a therapist, call your insurance provider. You may also obtain a referral from your general practitioner or ask a friend for a recommendation.