Shining a Light: National Children of Addiction Awareness Week

February 9–15 is National Children of Addiction Awareness Week, which helps shine a light on the “hidden hurts” of children growing up in homes affected by addiction. It’s a time to get informed, offer support, and break the silence surrounding this disease that often feeds on secrecy.

Growing up with a parent struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD) or opioid use disorder (OUD) can have profound and lasting effects on a child. These children may experience a range of emotional, psychological, and even physical challenges.

They might live with constant uncertainty, fear, and shame, often taking on adult responsibilities at a young age. The instability and unpredictability of the home environment can disrupt their sense of security and well-being.

Children of parents with addiction are at an increased risk for developing various issues, including:

• Mental health challenges: Such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, confusion, and anger.
• Behavioral problems: Such as acting out, difficulty in school, unexcused absences, and substance use in adolescence or adulthood.
• Relationship difficulties: They may have trouble forming positive attachments and setting healthy boundaries within relationships.
• Increased risk of SUD: They are more likely to develop their own struggles with alcohol or other substances.

It’s important to recognize that these children often suffer in silence. They may feel isolated and alone, believing that no one understands what they’re going through. They might be afraid to talk about what’s happening at home due to fear of judgment, shame, or even retaliation.

This is why raising awareness is so critical. By acknowledging the challenges these children face, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment.

How to Help a Child With an Addicted Parent

To help the child of a person with addiction, the National Association for Children of Addiction uses a powerful tool called the Seven Cs, which outlines a list of keywords that can help children set healthy boundaries.

Many children believe it is their fault or that it’s their job to fix their parent. But the Seven Cs teach children to understand that they “didn’t CAUSE it, can’t CONTROL it, and can’t CURE it.” But they “can help take CARE of themselves by COMMUNICATING their feelings, making healthy CHOICES, and CELEBRATING” who they are.

About COA Awareness Week

National Children of Addiction (COA) Awareness Week serves as a call to action. It’s an opportunity for families, friends, educators, and communities to come together and do better.

Here are some ways you can make a difference:

• Educate yourself: Learn about the impact of drug and alcohol addiction on families and children.
• Offer support: Reach out to families you know who may be affected by drug and alcohol misuse. Let them know you care and are there to listen.
• Encourage help-seeking: Let children and families know that help is available and that they are not alone.
• Break the stigma: Talk openly about addiction and mental health to reduce the shame and stigma associated with these issues.

At River Oaks Treatment Center, we also provide a helpful guide on how to help a family member with addiction, including resources for children with addicted parents.

Get Addiction Treatment Near Tampa, FL

At our inpatient rehab near Tampa, we understand the devastating impact of addiction on the entire family. We recognize that addiction isn’t just an individual battle—it’s a family disease that affects everyone. That’s why our comprehensive treatment programs address the needs of the whole family, not just the individual struggling with their drinking.

We offer various services, including family therapy, to help families heal from the wounds of addiction and rebuild healthy relationships. We believe that recovery is possible and are dedicated to providing compassionate, effective care to individuals and families impacted by substance use.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, call . We are here to help. You are not alone. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can support your journey to recovery.