Worried about 18yos drinking.

[Jipsi]

I know many go through a coming of age drinking spree. I had mine much younger than him then swore off alcohol for life.

But it's a different situation.

He is currently at home (finished college but out of work) because he was planning to end his life. He told us and we've been working with him to find a medication that works (starting a new one this week)

He has friends but he mostly talks to them online/through gaming. Although this week he has been out every night for about 4 days with friends.

He stopped his medication about a week ago to switch to a new one.

But the drinking, he drinks spirits. Vodka. Whiskey, amaretto etc and buys litre bottles.

I'd say he's going through 2 a week.

And he's drinking alone in his room.

He's autistic too.

His father is teetotal because he has the same mental health issues and he used alcohol as a mood lifter and got addicted.

I'm worried DS will do the same.

We've had a conversation about it and he nods and agrees that it's not a good thing to rely on to feel good but then another bottle appears

I'm also worried about it interacting with his medication.

Any advice please?

That isn't coming of age drinking OP, that's serious self medication. Where is he getting the money from? He's going to kill himself with booze.

What support does he have? Is he with the Crisis Team? Any agencies working with you?

Does he listen to anyone? His dad, an uncle, a former teacher?

He needs structure to his day, he needs exercise and fresh air. He needs to get out and do something constructive. Check out meetup.com for local activities.

His GP will know what support is available locally. He needs support to get sober. You could also try Hub of Hope.

I would contact the National Autistic Society for advice. You can also contact Young Minds.

I know it isn't, that's why I specifically pointed out it isn't coming of age drinking.

Why Tey to make out I'm minimising it when I'm doing the opposite?

No, he doesn't have any help. He was referred to the crisis team who dismissed him and said the GP can deal with him.

They just say apply for talking therapy and take your pills.

Sorry I'm just having a hard time at the moment.