It’s almost back-to-college season. For some of you, this might be your first time dropping off a child. Amid the excitement and nerves, here’s a reality we can’t ignore: "ALCOHOL" - it will likely be part of their new world—whether we like it or not.
Even if we, as parents, choose not to drink and believe
we’re setting a good example, there’s no guarantee our children will follow
suit. Your child may not be a drinker, but peer pressure, the need to fit in,
or the desire to look “cool” can sway even the most well-behaved kids. They may
have grown up seeing you as their role model, but now they’re surrounded by
peers—many of whom might be drinking—and it’s hard to hold the line. It is
quite easy to succumb to peer pressure.
Alcohol poisoning is
real, dangerous, and more common than most of us think. It can affect
anyone—any age, background, or family environment. Recently, someone we know
and love almost lost their life because of it.
In this recent incident, the absence of the talk meant the child didn’t know how dangerous alcohol could be, how it could affect
their body.
And while they took that drink to fit in with friends, it
was those same friends who recognized the signs of alcohol poisoning and called
the parents immediately and averted the tragedy. The quick action on their part
saved the child's life. However, not all stories end that way. The thought of
that night still gives me chills—it’s every parent’s worst nightmare.
That night, the parents sat helplessly, watching their child
drift in and out of consciousness, making sure they stayed warm and didn’t
choke on their vomit—until the alcohol wore off.
This post is a plea: Have a conversation.
Talk about the dangers of alcohol and the signs of alcohol poisoning—confusion,
vomiting, shallow breathing, and unconsciousness. Make sure they know it can be
fatal. Encourage a safety plan. Discuss designated drivers.
And most importantly, reassure them they can call you for
help, no matter what the circumstances. All the yelling and lectures can wait
until later. I’d rather have my child alive to yell at than leave it to fate.
Just because your kids are grown doesn’t mean you stop
worrying. And never say never. Your child might want to try the very
things you avoided. It’s better to prepare them than to assume they won’t.
So, if your child is heading to college—or simply out into
the world—please, please have the talk. Don’t leave safety to chance.
Let’s make sure their milestones are celebrations, not tragedies.
Images copied from Google.
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