My dad drinks too much, in my opinion. I wouldn’t call him an alcoholic, he doesn’t depend on alcohol, but he drinks more then he should. He’ll have like 2 or 3 beers and then act differently. He becomes more irritable and a bit stupid. A year ago, my dad drank to much and he got in a big fight with my mom. Me, my brother and my mom had to spend the night at my grandparent’s. After that night, he said he wouldn’t drink anymore, but then he gradually started back up again. I want him to stop drinking all together. What can I do?’

–Nobody‘

Hey chica,

You should sit your dad down and have a serious talk with him when he’s 100% sober. After all, you are his daughter and all fathers care about what their children think. Tell him it makes you feel really uncomfortable when he starts drinking. Although he may not be drunk after a few beers, it still affects his actions and changes him from the father you love to someone you know he’s not. Make sure when you approach him that you show him your sincerity and not your resentment.

Get together with your mom and brother and see if the three of you can encourage your father to stop drinking altogether. But if you don’t think he will listen to that, then try suggesting that he drink less. To prevent him from drinking, you could set up activities for the family. Let’s say a trip to the movies after dinner? Alcohol isn’t sold or permitted at the theaters so your family can have fun and your dad can stay sober. You and your family should try to the best of your abilities to keep your dad busy so that he doesn’t have time to sit down for a beer. Hopefully, after some time, he won’t even have time to think about drinking.

But no matter what, he’s still your dad. Show him love and support!

<3, Sharon