Childhood experiences and relationships have the ability to shape our lives. This can be the difference between living a healthy, fulfilling life or one of struggle. Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA) are more likely to display a number of behaviour traits and are more inclined to particular mental health disorders. The source of these behaviours and/or conditions is often overlooked and misunderstood. We hope this episode brings awareness, compassion and reflection to those who may have grown up in homes with high levels of substance use.

Free Resource:

Al-anon is a support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking, such as families and friends of alcoholics. Alateen is a specific program for young people, and is made up of mostly teenagers al-anon.org/

Show Mentions:

https://www.amazon.ca/Adult-Children-Alcoholics-Janet-Woititz/dp/1558741127

https://www.verywellmind.com/common-traits-of-adult-children-of-alcoholics-66557

https://psychcentral.com/blog/imperfect/2016/06/you-dont-outgrow-the-effects-of-an-alcoholic-parent#10-Ways-growing-up-with-an-alcoholic-parent-can-affect-you-as-an-adult

https://www.mentalhelp.net/parenting/what-happens-to-children-of-alcoholic-parents/

https://www.infiniterecovery.com/mental-health/adult-children-of-alcoholics-characteristics-personality-traits-and-effects-of-alcoholism-on-families-when-living-with-an-alcoholic-parent/