Kristin

This is part of my secret.
I kind of hope no one reads this.
Don't talk about it with me in person because I don't want to.

This is me...

Guilt. The child may see himself or herself as the main cause of the mother's or father's drinking.

Anxiety. The child may worry constantly about the situation at home. He or she is afraid the alcoholic parent will become sick or injured, and may also fear fights and violence between the parents.

Embarrassment. Parents may give the message that there is a terrible secret at home. The ashamed child does not invite friends home and is afraid to ask anyone for help.

Inability to have close relationships. Because the child has been disappointed by the drinking parent many times, he or she often does not trust others.

Confusion. The alcoholic parent will change suddenly from being loving to angry, regardless of the child's behavior. A regular daily schedule, which is very important for a child, does not exist because bedtimes and mealtimes are constantly changing.

Anger.. The child feels anger at the alcoholic parent for drinking, and may be angry at the non-alcoholic parent for lack of support and protection.

Depression. The child feels lonely and helpless to change the situation.