When To Call The Police On A Parent For Alcoholism

Deciding whether to call the police on a parent for alcohol addiction is a difficult and complex decision that should be carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis. While some believe that calling the police is the only way to get an addict to stop, others argue that the long-term repercussions of a criminal record and jail time could be harmful. It is important to consider the potential negative consequences, such as financial strain, and only call the police if the addict is putting themselves or others in danger. In the case of an alcoholic parent, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being, and reaching out to trusted adults, therapists, or hotlines for support can be a good first step.

Weighing the pros and cons of calling the police

Living with a parent who has a substance use problem can be challenging and stressful. It can affect your feelings, actions, and family life. If you are going through this, it is important to get the support you need.

Pros of calling the police on an alcoholic mother

Calling the authorities can be a difficult but necessary decision, especially if your mother's drinking has escalated to the point where it is affecting her daily life and the safety of those around her. Here are some potential benefits of involving the police:

• Safety: If your mother drives under the influence, calling the police can prevent her from potentially harming herself or others on the road. It can be a wake-up call to stop her before it is too late.
• Intervention: Involving the police can lead to interventions such as sobriety orders, house arrest with alcohol-detecting bracelets, or mandatory therapy sessions. These measures can help your mother address her alcoholism and make positive changes.
• Support: By calling the police, you can gain access to support systems and resources that can help your mother and your family navigate this difficult situation. This may include therapy, support groups, or social services.

Cons of calling the police on an alcoholic mother

While calling the police may be necessary in certain situations, there are also potential drawbacks to consider:

• Financial strain: If your mother relies on driving for work and loses her license due to a DUI, it could put your family in a difficult financial situation.
• Legal consequences: Depending on the circumstances and the number of offenses, your mother could face legal repercussions such as jail time, which may further disrupt family dynamics and cause additional stress.
• Family dynamics: Calling the police on a family member can be emotionally challenging and may lead to complex feelings of guilt, blame, or resentment within the family. Your mother may blame you or your family members for involving the authorities.

Ultimately, the decision to call the police on your mother for alcoholism, especially if it involves drunk driving, is a personal one that depends on your specific circumstances. It is important to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks and seek support from trusted sources to make an informed decision.

The potential negative consequences of calling the police

Calling the police on a family member can be a difficult decision, and there are several potential negative consequences to consider. Firstly, there is a risk of legal repercussions for your mother if she is charged and convicted of a crime, such as a DUI or probation, which could result in jail time or other penalties. This could have a significant impact on her life and your family dynamics. Secondly, your mother may blame you or other family members for involving the police, causing tension and potentially damaging your relationship with her. Thirdly, there may be financial implications for your family if your mother loses her license or faces other legal consequences that affect her ability to work or provide for the family.

Another potential consequence is the involvement of child protective services if there are minors in the household. This could lead to further stress and instability for the family, especially if the children are temporarily removed from the home or placed in foster care. Additionally, calling the police may not address the underlying issues of your mother's alcoholism. It is important to recognize that alcoholism is a disease and that your mother may need professional help and treatment to recover. Involving law enforcement may not provide the long-term solution needed to address her addiction and any associated mental health issues.

Furthermore, calling the police may not guarantee your mother's safety or wellbeing, especially if she is arrested and placed in a correctional facility. People with substance abuse issues often face additional challenges in such environments and may be at risk of harm from other inmates or self-harm. Lastly, there is a potential impact on your own emotional wellbeing. Dealing with a parent's alcoholism is challenging, and involving law enforcement can be traumatic and guilt-inducing, especially if you are concerned about your mother's welfare or feel responsible for her situation.

It is crucial to carefully consider these potential negative consequences and seek alternative support before involving law enforcement. This may include reaching out to trusted adults, school counselors, therapists, or hotlines specifically designed to provide guidance and resources for individuals struggling with substance abuse and their families.

The impact of a parent's alcoholism on their child

Alcoholism in parents can have a range of negative impacts on their children, both during their childhood and as adults. Children of parents with alcohol use disorder (AUD) may not have had a good example to follow from their parents and may never have experienced harmonious family relationships. As a result, they may struggle to distinguish between good and bad role models. Children of parents with AUD may also develop a fear of conflict or confrontation, worrying that it could turn violent. They may also have little self-worth and low self-esteem, and can feel inadequate, different, and not good enough. Consequently, they may avoid social situations, have difficulty making friends, and isolate themselves.

Children of parents with AUD may also become overachievers or workaholics, or they may mirror the same bad behaviours they witnessed during childhood. They may develop a fear of abandonment and hold on to toxic relationships. They are also more susceptible to substance misuse and other issues, with some studies showing that they are more likely to misuse alcohol themselves.

The inconsistency and unpredictability in parenting behaviours that come with problem drinking can undermine a child's sense of order, control, and stability in the family environment. This can reduce their self-esteem and perceptions of self-competence. Parental problem drinking can also interfere with parenting skills and marital relations, and can lead parents to model ineffective coping strategies and other problem behaviours.

In a study of more than 25,000 adults, those who had a parent with AUD remembered their childhoods as "difficult" and struggled with "bad memories" of their parent's alcohol misuse. Some people experience this as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Problem drinking by parents has also been associated with lower performance in school.

When calling the police is necessary

Calling the police on a family member is a difficult decision that should be carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis. It is important to remember that substance use disorders harm a person's health and change the way they act, causing problems at home and work. If you are the child of a parent with an alcohol or drug problem, it is not your fault, and you should seek help and support from a trusted adult or friend.

When calling the police on your mother for alcoholism, it is necessary to consider the following:

Danger to Self or Others

If your mother's alcoholism is putting herself or others in danger, calling the police may be necessary. This could include instances where she is driving under the influence, engaging in criminal behaviour, or threatening harm to herself or others. In these situations, the police should be involved to ensure the safety of all parties.

Previous Attempts to Address the Issue

Before involving the police, it is important to consider whether you have tried other avenues to address your mother's alcoholism. This could include speaking to her about your concerns when she is sober, seeking help from other family members or trusted adults, or encouraging her to seek treatment for her addiction.

Potential Consequences

Calling the police on your mother for alcoholism may result in criminal charges and negative consequences for her, such as jail time and a permanent criminal record. It is important to carefully consider these potential repercussions and how they may impact her life in the long term.

Your Safety

If you feel unsafe or at risk due to your mother's alcoholism, calling the police may be necessary to ensure your immediate safety. This could include situations of domestic violence or if you feel your mother's behaviour is escalating and becoming unpredictable.

Intervention and Treatment

In some cases, police departments may help connect your mother with addiction treatment programs. Involving the police could be a way to get her the help she needs and serve as a wake-up call to motivate her to change her behaviour.

Ultimately, the decision to call the police on your mother for alcoholism is a complex and personal one. It is important to carefully consider all the factors involved and seek support for yourself throughout this difficult process.

Alternatives to calling the police

Calling the police on a loved one is a difficult decision that should be carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis. While it may be necessary in certain situations, there are also alternatives to consider that can help address the issue without involving law enforcement. Here are some suggestions:

• Seek Support and Resources: Reach out to organizations and support groups specifically designed to help individuals and families dealing with addiction. These groups can provide valuable guidance, emotional support, and practical tools to navigate the challenges of living with an alcoholic parent. Examples include the Partnership to End Addiction and community-based support groups for children of addicts.
• Prioritize Your Safety: If you feel unsafe or at risk of harm due to your mother's alcoholism, prioritize your safety first. This may involve staying with a trusted friend or relative or seeking temporary housing if you need to distance yourself from the situation. Remember that you are not alone, and it's important to take care of yourself emotionally and physically.
• Open Communication: If possible, try having an open and honest conversation with your mother about your concerns. Express your love and support, and let her know that you want to help her address her alcoholism. It may be difficult for her to acknowledge the problem, but your willingness to communicate without judgment can be a powerful motivator for change.
• Encourage Treatment and Intervention: Explore treatment options and interventions that can help your mother address her alcoholism. This could include therapy, rehabilitation facilities, or support groups specifically for individuals struggling with addiction. Sometimes, a wake-up call, such as a DUI, can motivate an addict to seek help, but it is not a guarantee and should be considered carefully.
• Legal and Financial Alternatives: If your mother's alcoholism is leading to legal or financial troubles, consider consulting a lawyer or financial advisor to understand your options. For example, if her drinking is causing property damage or raising insurance issues, there may be non-criminal avenues to explore that can help protect your family's interests without involving the police.
• Community-Based Initiatives: Look into community-based initiatives and public health programs aimed at reducing substance abuse and its harmful consequences. For instance, Cure Violence is a program in several US cities that uses trained street violence interrupters and community outreach to reduce shootings and killings.
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Hotlines: Familiarize yourself with mental health and substance abuse hotlines that can provide immediate support and guidance. These hotlines offer confidential assistance and can connect you with additional resources. Examples include the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Substance Use Helpline.

Remember, each situation is unique, and it's important to assess the specific circumstances and your mother's willingness to accept help. While these alternatives can provide options for addressing the issue without involving the police, the priority should always be the safety and well-being of all involved.

Frequently asked questions