The ways in which parental substance and alcohol use disorder affect children are sometimes dramatic, sometimes subtle; sometimes instantaneous, sometimes chronic; sometimes they can be overcome, sometimes they are forever, but they are always powerful and enduring in the memories of children.
The holiday season is such a special moment especially for children. Children are looking forward to celebrating, spending time with family, friends and mostly receiving gifts from loved ones. November and December are the hardest months of the year for most families experiencing a separation or divorce. Providing the right guidance and education in dealing with these life changes is critical for these families.
It is becoming an all too familiar statistic that is quoted in most articles related to children and divorce: “About half of all American children will experience their parent’s divorce.” While divorce can be a stressful time for both adults and children, research demonstrates that the parent’s ability to effectively co-parent is of paramount importance in determining the children’s well-being and adjustment…