Newsletter MADD Teen Influencer September 2022: National Recovery Month
This article features various methods of diverting an underage person's attention from booze to new views. Learn what MADD has to offer! Useful Alternatives 1
MADD Teen Influencer Nitya gives advice on how to help a friend who may have a drinking problem. Ask A Teen Influencer
By Kelly Halliburton., MADD Teen Influencer How to Support a Friend Struggling With Alcohol
In cities with large amounts of alcoholic beverages, minors can gain unauthorized access to them without realizing the dire consequences. As a citizen, you have the potential to contribute to ending hazardous drinking. Here are ways you can support others who are struggling with substance abuse.
When attending events with the friend in need, always volunteer to drive. Even if the person appears to be alert, the effects of alcohol may still cloud their judgment and hinder cognitive abilities. An alert, sober driver ensures the safety of all passengers riding in motor vehicles. If you are not legally permitted to drive on public streets, ask a trusted adult to drive for you. If any attendees are minors, they must be over twenty-five years old and carry a valid driver's license. Even if this complicates carpools, it can help prevent dire consequences. As stated by Charles M. Hayer, “Safety first is safety always.”
MADD Teen Influencer
September 2022
Offer alternatives. Say no to a l c o h o l .
“No alcohol is allowed in my house. Could you dispose of those drinks?” “I’m sorry, but the smell of alcohol is nauseating. Please put the drink away.” “My refrigerator has no room left. Perhaps you should throw this away.” Refuse to carry alcoholic beverages in your room, vehicle, or workplace. If your companion brings them over, set clear boundaries. While this can be difficult, you are doing them a life-changing favor at a young age. Here are phrases you can say to enforce your rules: Warm tea, sweet juice, and delicious spring water are great alternatives to offer instead of alcoholic beverages. Unfortunately, some teenagers seek alcohol out of pressure or boredom. Open your friend’s eyes to the potential of other drinks: ones that are significantly healthier and more refreshing.
Alcohol can affect your energy levels.
Find the Source
Those who drink underage may use fake identification cards or gain access to alcohol from uninformed family members and/or other sources.
Alcohol users may leak information and expose the sources of their beverages (even when sober). Question your friend and listen closely to the details in their response. Does their answer connect with prior knowledge? Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) ® has additional resources and Victim Services that can aid your friend. If physical violence, self-harm, or other serious forms of abuse occur, do not hesitate to call law enforcement immediately. As a trusted friend, reporting the alcohol consumption to an adult is often challenging. Your friend may have asked you to keep it a secret. However, permitting minors to drink alcohol without interference can cost them their futures, well-being, and even their lives. An experienced adult may be able to handle this serious situation than yourself. Adults you place faith and trust in do not have to be limited to parents. They can also be supportive teachers, sport coaches, or even driving instructors! However, you should refrain from spreading rumors or personal information about your friend with other peers and classmates.
MADD Teen Influencer
September 2022
Be There for Your Friend
When a teen is adequately educated on the dangers of intoxication, they will most likely avoid alcoholic substances. There are many causes for underage alcohol intake, such as a strong desire to "fit in" with other teens. In order to support your friend, be aware and open-minded. "Being there" does not entirely refer to your physical presence. It means to thoroughly listen and internalize a struggling person's feelings and thoughts. Try to be supportive, honest, and warm towards your friend. Place yourself in their situation and reflect on possible challenges that they face. By using your critical thinking skills, you will be able to discover feasible solutions. If situations worsen, always check for symptoms of impairment or any injuries the victim may suffer. Contact paramedics or dial 911 in the event of alcohol poisoning/overdose. Reporting these unfortunate instances could save a life. Every life deserves to reach a bright, alcohol-free future. Counseling services and the spread of awareness give support to hundreds of victims every year! Various school districts schedule presentations to teach youth about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs. Progress is certainly being made. It is crucial to encourage an afflicted minor to reflect and undergo a healing process when they quits drinking. Visit www.powerofyouth.com for more information and call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.
MAIN TAKEAWAYS
1) Volunteer to drive 2) Offer Non-Alcoholic Beverages and Alternatives 3) Find the Source 4) Tell a Trusted Adult 5) Be There for Your Friend.
MADD Teen Influencer September 2022
Protecting Yourself Unfortunately, continuous exposure to handling substance abuse can be overwhelming. Protecting yourself, both from alcoholic substances and dangerous situations, can also guide you to having the right headspace to share with your friend. Try inviting them during your lunch period to practice meditation or simply discuss hobbies, events, or activities. Taking these simple steps to form a closer bond can free up worries and refresh your minds. Always offer positive advice or insight because repeatedly doing so can elevate your outlook on life. You will be more prepared to face challenging situations and foster more energy to spread to your community. Enthusiasm, when fostered, can brighten up even the worst of days. Remember, encouragement is crucial to help a friend in need. Stay optimistic!
Nominate an Influencer of the Month! Do you know an influential teen who is a great role model? We would love to spotlight them! Click on the icon to the left or use the link below to share why they should be MADD's Influencer of the Month!
TINYURL.COM/MADDIOTM
MADD Teen Influencer September 2022
2 Ask A Teen Influencer: How Can I Help A Friend Who May Have A Drinking Problem?
By Danielle G., MADD Teen Influencer
MADD's mission is to end drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support the victims of these violent crimes, and prevent underage drinking. The purpose of the Teen Influencer Group is to provide leadership development for teens by training them to be peer-to-peer educators. These teens provide MADD with the youth perspective and use their voice to educate the public. By reducing and then eliminating underage drinking, these teens will help MADD end drunk driving. Looking for some advice? Each month our MADD Teen Influencers will offer helpful tips based on questions submitted by other teens. You can submit questions anonymously with the link below or by clicking on the icon to the left. TINYURL.COM/MADDTEENADVICE
@MADDCalifornia
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