At the end of Children of Alcoholics Week, a new government report was released that showed 10.5%, or 7.5 million, children under the age of 18 live with a parent who has experienced an alcohol use disorder (i.e., alcohol dependence or abuse) in the past year.

The report looked at data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 2005-2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH).

6.1 of the 7.5 million children live with two parents, where either one or both has experienced problems with alcohol in the past year. The remaining 1.4 million are in a single-parent household where that parent has experienced an alcohol disorder in the past year.

It’s no surprise that children who live with an alcoholic parent are at a greater risk of parental abuse or neglect as well as developing mental health problems like anxiety disorders and depression. In addition, these kids are at greater risk for developing their own alcoholic problems later in life.

Alcohol affects more than just the person doing the drinking. It’s important for these kids, and anyone who is affected by another person’s drinking, to know they are not alone. For resources on helping children of alcoholics, visit the National Association for Children of Alcoholics.

If you are in Maine, Crossroads provides outpatient mental health counseling to adults and families who are affected by a loved one’s addiction. Read some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Family Members