WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP

As a professional, there are many important things you can do to help children of substance abusers (COSAs):

• Dispel myths about substance abuse. Let COSAs know they are not alone, and are not responsible for their parent’s alcohol or drug problem;

• Provide information that helps COSAs recognize and understand parental substance abuse as a source of problems;

• Help COSAs learn positive ways to cope. Simple, concrete suggestions of coping techniques, coupled with information about family substance abuse, are crucial to reaching and helping youngsters and adults. Cultural, ethnic, racial and religious differences can influence how you can best help someone.

• Provide a link to local resources. Find out the capabilities of your school, organization, or agency to refer or counsel children.

• Tell COSAs about resources for help and reinforce the idea that they deserve help for themselves. Let them know many others are already receiving that help.