Take a Stand NE | Sponsored by SENECO

Here's how you can Take a Stand

You too can make a difference. Use the following tips to help your friends and family avoid negative behaviors that are associated with alcohol.

Talk about your concerns - Tell your friend that you are concerned about his or her binge drinking because you care.
Recognize the triggers - Identify what may trigger your friend's binge drinking, and help him or her to avoid these situations.
Be an advocate for "no" - Help your friend stand up to others who may be pressuring him or her to drink.
Find alternate activities - Help your friend avoid drinking situations altogether by suggesting fun activities that don't include alcohol, such as sports.
Help keep track - Give your friend a drinking tracker card to help stay on top of the number of drinks consumed.
Seek outside help - Don't feel like you have to deal with this on your own. Turn to a parent, trusted adult, R.A., advisor or professor if you think your friend needs additional help, or consult a professional organization. www.hhs.sate.ne.us/beh/mhsa.htm

Plan ahead for a designated driver - Talk to your friend before going out and make a plan for a sober driver to get both of you home.
Volunteer to drive him/her home - If you haven't been drinking, you can offer to drive a friend home yourself.
Make your voice heard - Tell your friend politely, yet firmly, that you cannot allow him or her to drive home because you care.
Give him/her a place to stay - If you are able and feel comfortable doing so, have your friend spend the night.
Take the keys - Stop your friend from driving by taking and hiding his or her car keys.
Don't give in - Whatever you do, stay firm in your stance. You really can be a difference between life and death.

Create opportunities to talk with your kids - It's never too early to start. Speak openly and naturally with your children about alcohol use. Give them a voice in the conversation as well.
Express your expectations clearly - Explain to your kids exactly what you expect and why. Make sure they understand, and let them know you are serious.
Enforce accountability for your kids' behavior - Choose consequences that are immediate and important to your child, and be sure to enforce them consistently.
Keep communicating and reinforcing the message - Don't just talk about it once. Keep an open dialogue with your children about your views and expectations.
Join and support a parent Safe Homes network - These community-based groups allow parents to join together to help deter underage drinking. Learn more at www.lcad.org/community-groups/safe-homes.