07/16/2025
When a loved one struggles with substance use, children often carry silent burdens.
For many kids, school provides a safe, structured escape to be seen and supported. But with summer here, that safety net disappears, and the impacts of living with someone who struggles with substance use can become even heavier.
Here are ways to support a child living with someone with substance use disorder:
1. Help them understand that addiction is an illness that requires treatment.
2. Be honest. Give age-appropriate answers, and remember that it's okay if don't have all the answers.
3. Remind the child that they're not alone. Help them identify safe people, supporters, and resources.
4. Give them the chance to feel seen and heard, have power, and feel valued.
5. Let them know it's okay to ask for help.
Need additional help? At MBH, we understand how deeply these challenges can affect a child's emotional and mental well-being. That's why we offer prevention and support programs to help children navigate and build resilience.
https://www.muskingumbehavioralhealth.com/