Impact of SUD on Children

SHINE A LIGHT 

AROUND THE WORLD ON HIDDEN HURTS

(Children of Addiction Awareness Week)

Impact of Alcohol/Opioid Use Disorder on Children

Youth with a parent who misuses substances are:

• At risk of lifelong negative mental and physical health consequences
• 3x more likely to be physically, emotionally, or sexually abused
• 4x more likely to be emotionally or physically neglected, with higher rates in rural populations
• More likely to be victims of violent crime
• More likely to be involved in alcohol -related traffic crashes
• Less likely to set healthy boundaries within relationships
• More likely to lack self-awareness
• More likely to experience anxiety, depression, confusion, and anger
• More likely to experience unexcused absences and drop out of school
• More likely to have difficulty with direct communication
• Less likely to effectively regulate emotions
• More likely to be involved with the juvenile justice system
• 38.9% avg (or as high as 69%) depending upon the child protective services is due to substance misuse in the home environment
• More likely to take on parental responsibilities at home

For information about how to help,
visit NACoA.org