Q: Should adults talk to their children about their addictions?
Yes, communication is essential in healthy family communication. When it comes to addiction, many important principles need to be addressed with children. They need to know that they at are not at fault; in no way did they create their family member’s need to drink, use drugs, or engage in any addictive behavior.
Children need to hear that the family member loves them — always has and always will. Children need to understand that addiction is a family disease. Children also need to know that their family member needs help to get better, and that he may be away from home for weeks, days, or just an hour or two to get the help he needs – but that he will return.
According to the National Association of Alcoholics, “The Seven Cs” can help children of alcoholics/addicts deal with parents who “drink too much.”
- I didn’t Cause it
- I can’t Cure it
- I can’t Control it
- I can help Care for myself by
- Communicating my feelings,
- Making healthy Choices (it’s up to Mom, Dad and, most importantly, me),
- By Celebrating myself.
Categories: Communication