Substance abuse is one of today’s major health problems, affecting countless families and creating pain and confusion for children. But many of us are uncertain how to talk with children when a family member has a problem with substance use and that uncertainty too often leads to avoidance and secrecy that only compound the problems. This week’s Mom Enough guest, Dr. Kristen Burnett, has worked with many children and youth in families dealing with substance abuse. She joins Marti & Erin in this week’s Mom Enough show for a straightforward, realistic discussion of different types of substance problems, common effects on children living with adults who abuse alcohol or other drugs, how to talk with children of different ages and where to find additional resources.

 

After the discussion with Dr. Burnett, stay tuned for a brief Relationships that Nurture feature with Kate Rickord from St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development with tips on how to help your child find better solutions for difficult behavior.

 

Does someone in your family or close circle of friends have a problem with alcohol or other drugs? Have you talked openly with your child(ren) about that person’s problems? If so, what have you said? What new ideas or insights did you get from this Mom Enough discussion? Leave a comment below!

 

For the National Association for Children of Alcoholics, click here.

For the 7 Cs for children to remember, click here.