Children are often at the receiving end of the toll that addiction takes on the family. Approximately 8.7 million children lived in a household where a parent struggled with addiction. Whether caused by drug abuse or alcoholism, it is crucial to understand that addiction can have serious, long-lasting effects on a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development.
Addiction in Parents
Addiction, or Substance Use Disorder (SUD), causes significant distress not only for the individual directly struggling with it but also for their family and loved ones.
A parent’s addiction often leads to inconsistent child-rearing practices and a diminished ability to provide sufficient care and support. In some cases, children may be forced to assume the role of a caregiver in the family when they should be experiencing a normal childhood.
The effects of addiction on children can be profound. It can negatively impact a child’s ability to function in various areas of their life due to the dysfunction in the home environment. These challenges can shape one’s development and influence relationships during childhood and adulthood.
How Does Parental Addiction Affect Children?
Developmental Barriers
The physical effects of addiction can begin as early as pregnancy. Alcohol and drug use during this time increases the risk of premature birth, which can lead to complications such as low birth weight and growth deficiencies. It can also disturb brain development, potentially causing developmental delays and intellectual disabilities in infants.
Neglect and Abuse
Parents struggling with addiction may display less warmth, responsiveness, and attachment to their children. They often also become insensitive to the emotional and physical needs of their child.
Studies show that parents with alcohol or drug addiction were 3 times more likely to engage in physically or sexually abusive behaviour and 4 times more likely to neglect their child. Substance abuse can impair judgement and increase irritability, making anger outbursts, aggression, and erratic behaviours more common.
Academic Difficulties
Addiction is commonly associated with poor academic performance. Many children often face challenges at school, such as task completion and maintaining engagement, due to stress and disruptions at home. Exposure to addiction can also negatively impact cognition, making it harder for children to process information, stay focused, and fully participate in class.
Relationships Problems
Children raised in disorganised and detached households may have difficulties forming and maintaining healthy relationships. The absence of familial care and stability can make it hard for them to trust others, open up, and express themselves effectively. They may also experience feelings of shame and fear of being misunderstood, which can lead to low self-esteem, isolation, and peer rejection.
Mental Health Issues
Children whose parents suffer from drug addiction are more likely to experience a wide range of emotional and psychological issues, which can influence their thoughts and actions. As a result, they are at a higher risk of developing behavioural problems due to emotional dysregulation or a need for attention, control, or validation. These mental health challenges can worsen over time and persist into adulthood.
Elevated Risk of Substance Abuse
Early exposure to substance use, whether through direct access or by witnessing a parent’s addiction, can increase the odds of modelling this behaviour and eventually developing an addiction later in life. Children may also turn to substances as a coping mechanism to deal with emotional abuse and stress from their adverse childhood experiences.
Risk Factors For Children
Several factors can put children at risk of developing addiction, such as genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and traumatic experiences during childhood. Below are circumstances that can make children more susceptible to addiction and other mental health disorders:
- A parent, primary caregiver, or family member uses drugs or alcohol regularly.
- A parent with addiction also has a co-occurring disorder (e.g., anxiety and depression).
- One or both parents have an addiction.
- Exposure to physical abuse, sexual violence, or life-threatening events.
- Neglectful or inconsistent caregiving.
- Early and easy access to substances.
Recognising these factors is essential in facilitating appropriate intervention to lower the risk of long-term consequences and complications.
Support for Children of Parents with Addiction
Psychotherapy has been proven effective in addressing the impact of substance abuse on families and in reducing the risk of future alcohol and drug abuse in children. Below are forms of therapy that are beneficial for people suffering from the psychological effects caused by addiction.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy provides a safe and private space for children to express their struggles related to their parents’ substance use. This therapy helps individuals identify the root causes of their problems and develop appropriate coping strategies to improve behaviour and reduce the risk of addiction later in life.
Group Therapy
Group therapy offers immediate access to a social support network that can help children heal. This approach emphasises mutual support and collective healing by interacting and working with individuals with similar struggles. Group therapy can include psychoeducation, counselling, and support groups, among others.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is a form of group therapy exclusive only to the family members affected. It offers a collaborative approach by exploring the parent and child relationship and broader family dynamics. This therapy helps family members understand the negative impact of addiction on children while also improving communication and strengthening family bonds.
Addiction Treatment Options You Can Consider
Addiction is a complex and chronic condition that requires professional treatment and support.
Residential treatment can be highly beneficial for parents who need intensive, round-the-clock supervision in a structured environment free from distractions. This tailored approach includes combined therapy, life-skills training, and medical support.
An outpatient programme may be a more suitable option for parents who do not require 24/7 monitoring. It offers a more flexible approach, allowing them to receive comprehensive care while maintaining their daily routine and connection with the outside world.
Both residential and outpatient treatment play vital roles in helping individuals manage symptoms, focus on their recovery, and work toward long-term sobriety.
