Lexi, you are in a dangerous position. You need to tell your mom or your grandparents. That is not okay that he's going to the bars when he knows he has a responsibility to you. Talk to him about it. And be serious and straight-forward. Tell him he does have something to live for, and that he is hurting you more than anyone. Tell him that if he can't handle all of that, then you would prefer to stay with your mom when he wants to get drunk.   When he is drunk when he comes home, call your grandparents or your mom. A drunk man (and his actions) isn't something for a girl to see. Tell people. Get yourself out of that situation. No one can help you if they don't know. Nobody can help your dad if they don't know. Go with your gut.  Help yourself! – Andraya, 14, USA

Dear Lexi,  that’s a hard situation to be in. Have you tried to talk to your mom or another adult about this? I get that this doesn’t happen every night. But if you’re only over there every other weekend he should be spending time with you, especially since you’re not over there that often. An adult should not put you in a situation like that, especially one that can end up dangerous because sometimes people act different drunk. If it’s not something you feel comfortable talking to your mom about try another parent, teacher, grandparent, or family member. I hope it gets better for you. – Ashley, 15, Illinois

Hey, Lexi! First of all, I suggest you talk to your mom. If your dad ends up getting drunk, it's NOT safe for you to be in the same house. He could seriously hurt you without meaning to. He just wouldn't be thinking right from all the alcohol he took in. Tell someone about this. That's the only thing I'm gonna say. Also, I know it's really hard, but you've gotta do it to keep yourself safe. – Lauren, 14, USA (PenPal #16584)