Try to get them interested in new activities and participate in leisure time activities that they enjoy, like a hobby. Don't try to convince your parent or caregiver to stop drinking or using drugs when he or she is under the influence. If they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they're not thinking clearly and they may not remember the conversation after the effects of the alcohol or drugs have worn off. Remember that the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing are normal. It's normal to hate the addiction that makes your parent or caregiver behave differently but still love the person.
Confusion is a normal reaction to growing up in a family with a substance abuser.
Get involved in clubs, sports, or activities at school such as youth and hobby clubs. Just because your caregiver or parent has a problem doesn't mean you should forget how to have fun. The other activities can make you forget about problems at home and help make you feel better about yourself. Don't water down or pour out your parent's alcohol or hide drugs. You cannot control your parent's drinking or drug use.