I think DS has a problem with alcohol

[Alcoholproblem]

It’s been going on for a while and I need some advice. NC’d for this.

DS (22) has had ongoing mental health issues for some time and is seeing a psychologist. However, he also seems to have a problem with alcohol - for example, he will drink far too much (a full bottle of whisky overnight), and when he’s socialising, he drinks much faster than everyone else. He brings home alcohol regularly and goes through that much quicker than most people also.

This morning we woke up to a long, rambling email from him saying he’s "done with alcohol" and "doesn’t want to talk about it in the morning," and so on. I suspect part of the reason he sent it is because he knows we’d see the empty whisky bottle.

I’m not sure what to do. Has anyone been through something similar or have any advice?

Thank you.

Hey @Alcoholproblem , I don't want to make you panic but that much alcohol is really dangerous and you - and him - definitely need proper help ASAP.
Have a look at the info here. I can't think of what else off the top of my head but really wanted to respond. Please take care of yourself. This is a crisis as far as I can see, needs action. Hugs.
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/parents-a-z-mental-health-guide/drugs-and-alcohol/

Yes I think it’s fair to say he has a problem.

Sibling of an alcoholic here. Yes this definitely sounds like an addiction, and he’s possibly self medicating to deal with his mental health issues, which needs addressing ASAP. First stop is the GP and his pscycologist. It’s positive that he’s acknowledged that he has a negative relationship with alcohol in his email to you. Strike while the iron is hot, so to speak, and encourage him to get help now without judgement. Be on his side, acknowledge that what his going through is hard but millions of others have been exactly where he. Given his age you or he could contact Talk to Frank to discuss the options (residential rehab will likely be suggested, but this with obviously need to be balanced with his wider mental health issues). This is really hard & it’s a long road, but the sooner he’s on it the better. Look after yourself too & speak to a therapist if you can. Wishing you all the very best.

Also (and he may already have presented there) don’t forget that A&E should be your first call if you think he’s in crisis/immediate danger. While he will essentially be patched up & sent on his way, it can trigger other services to become involved.

You can (prob will) bust a gut trying to help, but only he can decide to stop
drinking.

Over to him. It really is. Say it. Then do what you can.

Thank you everyone. Very much appreciated.

I have pm’d you

This 100% . You didn't cause it and you can't cure it. He has to want to stop himself.

Hi, have a similar issue with my 19yo. He is autistic and severely depressed. He is on medication now which seems to have helped a little but he definitely has issues with alcohol.

He is very isolated and drinks alone in his room but goes through way too much. Ive spoken to him many times and informed his Dr too, who has talked to him.

Months back he drank too much whiskey, threw up all over his desk and came and told me. He slept in my room and he also said he was done with alcohol.
But it didnt last :(

Would it be reasonable for me to email his counsellors/psychologist and tell her how much he's drinking?
He's a very smart young man and has admitted that he has needed to change counsellors in the past because he can pull the wool over their eyes!

@Alcoholproblem Yes definitely. They need to know so they can help.

I found this book very helpful

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56901629-understanding-and-helping-an-addict