I'm 15 and Have an Alcohol Problem. How Do I Stop Drinking?

by Sydney
(UK)

Hi, I'm 15, 16 in a few months - and since the age of 13 I have loved to drink alcohol, but this year it has got out of control to the extent I cannot go out without drinking.

I feel like I can't have a good time without alcohol - in a usual night I drink about 1 bottle of wine, 4 big bottles of something like WKD, 3 vodka and red bulls, a bottle of fruit cider and about 3 beers.

But the worst thing is I have polycystic kidney and fibrosis of the liver and portal hypertension. And I'm not allowed to drink alcohol because of my liver problem and I know it is going to make my liver worse but I really don't know how to stop drinking. I would appreciate any of your help, thanks x

Answer

Hi Sydney

It takes a lot of courage to admit you have a problem, especially considering you're still so young.

I think the first thing you need to do is talk to someone. Ideally your parents or a Counsellor/teacher at school. I know they're probably the last people you want to speak to, but I'm sure if you're honest with them and tell them what you're going through and that you want help to stop - they'll be there for you and help you get the support and help you need.

When I was still quite young and living with my parents - I got arrested for possession of drugs. I thought my parents would flip when they found out, but they were actually really supportive because I was sorry and told them I think I needed help. Remember they just want the best for you - and I'm sure they'll do everything they can to help.

Being able to stop drinking alone is a really tough thing to do - so we need people who will be there for us and support us through the journey. But if you really won't speak to your parents, make an appointment with your Doctor, and ask for a referral to see a Counsellor to talk to about what you're going through. Just find someone to confide in who will help you with this.

Here's also a UK confidential Hotline number you can call that will help:
0845 769 7555. I suggest you also spend time reading the alcohol treatment and alcohol recovery sections of this site - where you'll get an understanding of what it takes to successfully overcome your problem.

But the main thing is that you speak to someone as soon as possible. Someone you can trust and who will support you in finding the help you need.

Good Luck and let us know what happens.

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