Children of Alcoholics
Children of Alcoholics Week recognizes the damaging effects of alcoholism on children, February 10-16, 2013.
Throughout February, we celebrate the recovery of children who have received the help they need to recover from the effects of their parents' alcohol and drug addiction, and offer hope to those still suffering.
Alcohol Has Serious Effects on Children
Children who grow up in a home with alcoholism are at high risk for having alcohol and other drug problems themselves. These children often live with constant tension and stress, have low self-esteem, have higher levels of anxiety and depression, show higher rates of behavior problems, do poorly in school, and have problems coping with everyday life.
Children of alcoholics can learn to trust and handle their feelings in healthy ways. Building positive, nurturing relationships helps protect them from problems with alcohol.
Helping Children of Alcoholics
Children living with alcohol or drug abuse in the family can benefit from joining a support group, some offered in their school student assistance programs. Kids age 11 and older can join Alateen groups, which meet in in the community and offer healthy connections with others coping with similar issues. Taking part in the activities of a faith community can also help.
Columbus Program for Children Ages 8 to 13
You’re Extra Special (Y.E.S.) is a child-centered supportive education prevention program for children whose lives have been affected by alcohol and other drug use. It focuses on the needs, feelings, and perceptions of the child.
YES is a 12-lesson support and education group for children ages 8-13, which uses play and art expression. Y.E.S. is for children whose parent (s) are in recovery, who love and care about someone who uses or abuses alcohol and other drugs, and/or who live in foster care or with adoptive families because of alcohol and other drug use.
Y.E.S. builds skills like confidence and a positive outlook, finding sources of support, reducing stress, communicating and problem-solving.
For more information on Y.E.S., call (614) 645-7306
More Resources
Alcohol & Drug Abuse ProgramNational Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information Center
Al-Anon/Alateen
Alcoholics Anonymous
National Association for Children of Alcoholics
Source: SAMHSA