Early intervention is a potent prevention tool. Ending the behavior early significantly reduces the risk that your child's use will lead to harm—an accident, poor school performance, legal problems, brain damage, or addiction. If you suspect that your child is drinking or using drugs, start by taking the following steps:
Calmly discuss your concerns with your child
Assess the severity of the situation
Enforce consequences for your child's actions
Monitor your child closely
Increase family time
Get your child involved in constructive activities
Seek professional advice
If you find out your child is drinking alcohol, fill out this survey on your child's behalf to learn more about the consequences of your child's drinking and what you can do about it: www.AlcoholScreening.org
To learn moreabout what to do if you think your child is using, read the book.
The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University is neither
affiliated with, nor sponsored by, the National Court
Appointed Special Advocate Association (also known as "CASA") or any of its member
organizations with the name of "CASA."
