I struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction as a teen. My parents "discovered" my problem when I was taken to the emergency room because of a drug overdose. I can't imagine the trauma my mom must have experienced when she got a phone call from the ER telling her I had overdosed. Even if breaking the news to your parents does not go so well, it is better for them to become aware of your struggles now instead of being informed of them through a nasty consequence such as being expelled from school, overdosing, arrested...I agree with Crayn0, talking with a counselor first is a good idea. Maybe it is not absolutely necessary to tell your parents at the moment, but it is important that you get help as soon as possible. Your parents would probably take it better if they knew you were trying to do something about your drinking. All and all, it is not your parents welfare I am concerned about--it is yours. The first thing you need to do is address the drinking and get help. Then, you can worry about your parents. Of course, I am not sure about your relationship with your parents, they may be a source of help. Do whatever you need to do to take care of yourself and let your parents do whatever they need to do to take care of themselves. The number one priority at the moment is not your parents feelings but your life. Continuing down your current path is sure to lead to nothing but misery and pain for you and your parents.