Parenting Teens - When Things Go Wrong

Key points about when things go wrong with teenagers

• even with the best parents in the world, young people can still get into trouble
• most teenagers will experiment with alcohol, and getting it wrong is not uncommon
• if your teen does get very drunk, is unconscious or vomiting continuously, don't leave them alone
• put them on their side in the recovery position, make sure they are breathing and their mouth is empty – keep them warm
• if you are unable to wake them, dial 111 in New Zealand for an ambulance immediately (dial the appropriate emergency number in other countries)

What should I do if my teen gets into trouble?

Even with the best parents in the world, young people can still get into trouble. Most teenagers will experiment with alcohol and getting it wrong is not uncommon. While some young people may periodically drink heavily, most get through it OK!

What if your teenager:

• goes to a party when you have forbidden it?
• steals alcohol from your drinks cupboard?
• comes home drunk, vomiting?
• is completely wasted and you have to collect them from a party?

Remember:

• go back to any agreements you had made earlier
• if you agreed on consequences then you must follow through with these
• give them the opportunity to explain what happened
• don't try to reason with a drunken teenager – wait until the morning when they are sober and you are less angry
• explain to them why their behaviour is unacceptable to you and how you feel about it

If you are unable to wake them, dial 111 for an ambulance immediately.

Call an ambulance 

If you are unable to wake them, dial 111 for an ambulance immediately (dial the appropriate emergency number in other countries).

If your teen does get very drunk, is unconscious or vomiting continuously, don't leave them alone. Put them on their side in the recovery position, make sure they are breathing and their mouth is empty. Keep them warm.

Where can I get help for my teen?

If you are concerned that your teen has a drinking problem, seek out professional help and advice. The Alcohol Drug Helpline is a great place to start and is free to phone between 10am and 10pm daily on 0800 787 797.

See more KidsHealth content on parenting teens

Check out KidsHealth's section on parenting teens