Fear, shame and confusion are not uncommon things to feel for children of alcoholics or drug users. We all must work to help children who are concerned about these things in their homes get help for themselves.
Too many children live in fear
- One in four children under age 18 has at least one parent who abuses alcohol.
- About 5,600 students in Dane County, Wisconsin, worry about their parents drinking or using other drugs too much.
- Children are often afraid to break the silence and talk about their concerns. They keep the pain bottled up inside.
- Children living in fear or constant confusion have a greater chance of developing a range of physical, social and psychological problems.
Knowledge is power
- You cannot cure their parents. Their parents suffer from a disease. They are sick, not bad.
- You cannot control your parent's drinking. You did not cause this disease.
- You are not alone. Over 11 million children with alcoholic parents live in this country.
- You can talk about the problem. Find the 'safe people' in your life or call a helpline.