One in three deaths or serious injuries in children are caused by parental drinking, according to a new study published by the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology.
“Parental alcohol misuse scars kids for life and can lead many into a life of drinking too much themselves,” Liam Byrne, a member of parliament and chairman of the All-Party Group for Children of Alcoholics, told The Guardian. “Millions of parents drink too much and their misuse of alcohol causes horrific problems for their children.”
Researchers found that 15% of children had their bedtime routine interrupted by a parent’s drinking, and 18% were embarrassed by an intoxicated parent.
There are 28.6 million children of alcoholics (COAs) in the United States and 6.6 million are under the age of 18. Previous studies have shows that children growing up in an alcoholic family experience difficulties as adults, too, including problems with:
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Interpersonal relationships
- Anger management
- Self-esteem
- Trust
- Depression
Modeling Good Behavior
Parents have a big influence on young people’s decisions about alcohol consumption — 80% of children feel that parents should have a say in whether they drink alcohol. What’s more, the way you handle alcohol around your kids can have a big influence on their relationship with alcohol. This is why it’s important to set a good example by drinking in moderation and never getting behind the wheel, for example.
In addition, experts recommend reminding your child that underage drinking is against the law, and for good reason. Namely, adults are fully developed mentally and physically so they can handle drinking. Children’s minds and bodies are still growing, however, so alcohol can have a greater effect on their judgment and health. And, of course, if you think you have a problem with alcohol, getting help is the best way to become a positive role model for your child.
Alcohol Treatment for Young Adults
At Hope Academy, we help parents advocate for their children, so they get the help they need before it is too late. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.
