76 million Americans have been exposed to alcoholism in the family- about 43%, according to the National Association for Children of Alcoholics. Not everyone who is exposed to alcoholism in the family is the child of an alcoholic. They could be a sibling, a cousin, or even an next door neighbor who is incredible close. Many are the children, however. 26.8 million children of alcoholics are living and trying to live through their challenging pasts. It is likely that 11 million or more of those children are under the age of 18, not old enough to be considered legal.
When addiction and alcoholism enters the home, it affects the entire family. Siblings who are young are not oblivious to the antics and behaviors of their older sibling struggling with an addiction problem. They are not deaf to the fights or the crying, they are not blind to the struggle and the despair. Children are aware of the problem in the home, even if they aren’t able to understand what exactly addiction and alcoholism is. Children of alcoholics, of those with mental illness, or of siblings with addiction problems are more likely to develop substance abuse problems of their own.
It is important to protect children. Children are remarkably intelligent, resilient, and autonomous. They don’t deserve to be kept in the dark while pain continues to take over the household. Safely giving information to the family about addiction which is happening in the household is important. Finally, when the addicted loved one chooses treatment, they will understand more deeply why there is an absence in the home for long periods of time. They can learn that treatment can help their loved one be better.
Early intervention and harm reduction can come at an early age through a frank and loving conversation. Recovery can come home for the whole family. Let Hired Power show you the way. Our recovery services are designed to empower families to recover. From safe passage to treatment to sober monitoring after treatment, our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way. Call us today for more information at 1-800-910-9299.
