Alcoholism and drug abuse effects children

In families experiencing alcoholism or drug addiction, children are often overlooked as the focus is on treating the adult. However, children need attention, guidance, and positive reinforcement, especially as they may be growing up in homes where their trust is threatened by a secret.
These children need to have safe, reliable adults with whom to confide and who will support them, reassure them, and provide them with a feeling of safety and security.
There is a high likelihood that families with alcohol and drug problems will also have heightened levels of stress and chaos. These high-stress family environments are not only confusing but also a risk factor that may continue the cycle leading to early illicit substance use and other conditions such as social, mental, and even physical health problems.
Being honest with children about what is happening in the family is an important start that may help them express their feelings and concerns. Children must trust the adults in their lives and believe they can be depended upon to support them.
Children living with alcohol or drug abuse in the family can benefit from participating in school-based educational support groups and even individual or family therapy.  Alcoholism and Drug Addiction is a Family Disease and family therapy is sometimes the solution. You can view SAMHSA’s page on this by clicking here.