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Don’t drink. Make the choice to be healthy, remain aware of your surroundings, and maintain control of the situation you are in.
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Don’t ride with someone who has been drinking. Call a friend, a parent, or even a taxi if necessary.
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Don’t let others drive when they have been drinking. Take away their keys, help them find another safe way home.
- Leave a party if someone brings alcohol. Parties with alcohol can quickly get out of hand. In addition, you may be cited for minor in possession even if you are not drinking.
Know the signs
How can you tell if a friend has a drinking problem? Sometimes it's tough, but there are signs. If your friend has one or more of the following warning signs, he or she may have a problem with alcohol:
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Getting drunk on a regular basis
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Lying about how much alcohol he or she is using
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Believing that alcohol is necessary to have fun
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Having frequent hangovers
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Feeling run-down, depressed, or even suicidal
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Having "blackouts" - forgetting what he or she did while drinking
- Having problems at school or getting in trouble with the law
What can you do to help someone who has a drinking problem? Be a real friend. You might even save a life. Encourage your friend to stop or seek professional help. For information and referrals, you can contact the following:
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The Cool Spot - for kids 11-13
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National Institute for Alcohol and Alcohol Abuse
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National Institute for Alcohol and Alcohol Abuse
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National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information: (800) 729-6686
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Washington State Teen Line: (206) 722-4222 or (877) 345-8336
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, call the Recovery Helpline at 1-866-789-1511.