Navigating addiction as an adult is tricky enough, so where do we begin when it’s time to talk to the kids? Often times a child is aware of a problem existing before the words help or rehab are ever mentioned. But this doesn’t make the conversation any easier.
According to PsychCentral.com, more than 28 million children have a parent who suffers from alcohol abuse. And one of the biggest challenges in dealing with addiction is often the secrecy that surrounds the problem. Meaning, addiction isn’t something that’s talked about.
What does this mean for the kids of addicts? According to Dr. David Sack in “How to Talk to a Child About a Parent’s Addiction,” children of addicts tend to have more emotional, behavioral and academic problems than other kids. They are also four times more likely to suffer with addiction themselves. They are also at a greater risk for witnessing domestic abuse, suffering from child abuse or neglect, and marrying an addict. So it’s time to start talking!
So how do you talk to a kid? Dr. Sack offers some great insights into a healthy approach:
- Importance of timing: try to plan the conversation in a calm, distraction-free environment. It also helps to have a plan of action in place. Therefore, when the addiction problem is discussed with a child, the steps for addressing the problem can also be talked about.
- Remember the child’s age: use language that is age-appropriate, be clear, and end on a positive note.
- Be truthful: discuss with the child how addiction is a disease and the treatment that is required.
- Know the facts: be sure to educate yourself before talking with a child so that you can answer questions. But also don’t be afraid of not knowing something. You can explain that this a learning experience for everyone involved.
- Encourage dialogue: ask questions about a child’s feelings and invite them to discuss all the emotions they may be experiencing.
