by Gina DeMent, Public Information Officer
Five County Mental Health Authority
Holiday parties give people more chances to use drugs and alcohol.
The result is an increase in drug- and alcohol-related tragedies. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, At least 50% of all deadly crashes that take place during the holiday season involve alcohol.
These facts may mean that your child is more exposed to substance abuse — whether it’s an uncle who drinks too much, or a friend who offers your child marijuana at a New Yea’rs Eve party. The incidence of alcohol poisoning of children is increased during the holiday season. So, during this time, it is especially important that parents keep their children safe and talk with them about staying away from drugs and alcohol.
Holiday Celebration Tips
1. Let your child know what you expect. Tell your child that adults may be drinking during the holidays, but under no circumstances is he or she allowed to drink.
2. At your holiday gatherings, offer plenty of non-alcoholic drinks, foods and activities.
3. To lower the risk of alcohol poisoning, be sure to throw out partly empty alcoholic drinks. Children love to imitate adults, and if they have access to leftover drinks they may taste the contents.
4. Have a plan in place about what you and your family will do if you are at a party where there are people who have had too much to drink.
5. Model responsible behavior by making sure that guests who have been drinking do not drive.
Why not create some substance-free holiday traditions for your family? It’s a great way to show your child that you can have fun during the holidays without alcohol or drugs.
Alcohol-Free Holiday Tips:
1. Plan a non-alcoholic party with your child so that children learn that they can have fun without alcohol. Send out invitations with alcohol- and drug-free messages on them, and make sure guests know that yours will be a substance-free event.
2. For your holiday meal, let your child help you prepare and serve traditional drinks without alcohol. You can make non-alcoholic cider, egg nog, or punch. Look for recipes for non-alcoholic beverages like the ones found in these party planning tips.
3. Make sure your holiday festivities involve lots of delicious – and non alcoholic – food which your child can help you make.
4. If your older child is going to a holiday event, call ahead to make sure that the event will be alcohol- or drug-free. Check in with the party planners to see what measures are in place to keep alcohol out.
If you have trouble controlling your own substance use during the holidays, you should seek help. The Five County Mental Health Authority Helpline is available 24 / 7 by calling 1.877.619.3761.
Explain to your potential gift givers why you do not wish to receive holiday gifts of wine or other types of alcohol. This sets an example for your child. You are showing your child how to enjoy a safe, sober holiday season. The gift of an alcohol-free lifestyle lasts long after the holidays are over.
Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration