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As a commuter, you probably spend a good amount of time at home, and the stuff that’s going on there DOES affect you. Don’t let a parent’s alcohol or drug problem distract you from making your life better.
Here’s what to do:
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Don’t feel like you’re the only one. One in four college students grew up with a parent who abused alcohol or other drugs. |
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Be aware that growing up with a substance abuser probably left you with feelings of guilt, shame, and anger. Just because you’re moving on with your life doesn’t necessarily mean you’re over these issues, so take advantage of your college’s free counseling services while you can. There may even be a support group on campus. Don’t worry — it’s all confidential.
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Recognize that coming from a family with addiction has given you strengths that other people don’t have. Maybe you’ve learned to be more independent. Maybe you’ve developed talent in writing or painting or sports. Maybe you’ve become skilled at making people laugh. Be aware of your gifts. College is a great time to use your strengths to take flight.
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Keep your own alcohol or drug use in check. Because you grew up with an abuser, you’re at risk for substance abuse too. If you ever wonder whether you’re using too much, if you start using alcohol or drugs in an attempt to solve your problems, or if you lose interest in activities other than alcohol or doing drugs, you may be sliding down a slippery slope. Use the campus services available to you help get a grip. Don’t kid yourself into thinking you can just stop. |
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Look into off-campus support. If you just don’t like the idea of anyone at college knowing about your family situation, consider the different support groups available in your town. Check out Al-Anon at www.al-anon.org, the Children of Alcoholics Foundation at www.coaf.org, Families Anonymous at 800-736-9805, or the National Association for Children of Alcoholics at www.health.org/nacoa. |
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