About 1 in 8 children (8.7 million) aged 17 or younger lived in households with at least one parent who had a past year substance use disorder (SUD), according to a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). SUDs are characterized by recurrent use of alcohol or other drugs (or both) that results in significant impairment.
When a loved one or friend is experiencing a problem with alcohol use, it can also take a toll on your emotional, mental and physical health. For additional information and tools that can help, check out the following links to advocacy groups, education, local family groups and more.
- Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization Official 12-step program site for people seeking solutions to their problems, who come from an alcoholic or other drug-affected home.
- Al-Anon/Alateen Website for families and friends of alcoholics. (national resource)
- Al Anon Family Facebook Group
- How to help an older adult with substance abuse problems Hazelden publication
- Involuntary Commitment or Treatment Proceedings for the involuntary commitment or treatment of a chronic substance abuser to a facility - Law from the Iowa Code beginning with Chapter 125, Section 75 continuing through Chapter 125 Section 92.
- Iowa Al-Anon/Alateen Local Iowa Family Groups and resource page created by a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength and hope.
- National Association for Children of Addiction (NACA)
- National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACoA) Advocacy group for all children and families affected by alcoholism and other drug dependencies. Sponsors Children of Alcoholics Week each February.
Whether you want more information about alcohol use, would like to connect to a treatment professional or just want to talk to someone, weβre here for you. Call us, text us or chat with us online.