12/02/2026
I don't talk about my childhood/upbringing on a regular basis here.
But counseling and subsequently finding Nacoa, the National Association for Children of alcoholics, has helped me to share my story, especially during Children of alcoholics week (8th to 15th Feb). As far as I can remember it was at about the age of 6 or 7 that I realized my mom was drinking too much.
Nacoa is vital for both kids and adults to find a place where they can talk about their experiences. Experiences which especially as a child you don't want to share with anyone for fear of judgement and shame, I certainly didnt want to... and yes often the impact that an alcoholic parent has on a child gets ignored by institutions and individuals in positions where they should care - in my case this included a GP, teachers and family members.
The impact reverberates into adulthood where often are hypervigilant, uber independent, perfectionist, people pleasing, over-working, do not trust easily, and self sabotage when life goes well.
And I definitely see myself in some of these descriptions.👆
All of these can affect relationships with friends and partners as well as the professional life.
Please check out Nacoa and donate if you can to support this important charity-it is thought that 1 in 5 children is affected by a parent's drinking 🙏
