COA Awareness Week 2026: Supporting children affected by parental alcohol misuse

For many children, home is a place of comfort and security. But for others, home is a place of uncertainty, where a parent’s drinking casts a long shadow over daily life.

Running from 8-14 February, COA Awareness Week shines a light on the often-hidden struggles faced by Children of Alcoholics (COAs) – young people growing up in households where alcohol misuse is a daily reality, and adults who are still living with the legacy of that experience.

Founded by the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa), the week provides a platform to:

• Share the stories of COAs and make their voices heard
• Raise awareness of the emotional and practical challenges faced both in childhood and later life
• Promote vital support services and resources
• Encourage open conversations in families, schools and communities

Throughout the week, supporters can participate in a range of online and in-person events to support both children and adults who are struggling with their parents’ alcohol consumption.

What is a child of an alcoholic (COA)?

A child of an alcoholic (COA) is someone who grows up in a household where one or both parents misuse alcohol.

For many, this means living in an unpredictable environment – one where love and care may be present, but often overshadowed by chaos, anxiety, or fear.

According to a 2023 study published by the Health Research Board, over 250,000 children in Ireland live with adults who drink to hazardous levels. 

And this isn’t just a childhood issue. Many adults who grew up with parental alcohol misuse carry the effects with them for years, sometimes without realising it.

How parental alcohol misuse affects children

Growing up in a home where alcohol misuse is present can have a deep and lasting impact on a child’s wellbeing, including:

• Emotional insecurity: never knowing what version of a parent they’ll come home to
• Neglected needs: missing out on basic care, emotional support, or supervision
• Isolation: feeling unable to talk to friends or teachers about what’s really going on
• Fear or shame: keeping family secrets, even from a young age

These children may learn to be hyper-independent, constantly on alert, or overly responsible for the emotions and behaviours of others. Over time, this can take a toll on their mental and physical health.

Long-term effects

The impacts of parental alcohol misuse often extend into adolescence and adulthood, influencing:

• Confidence and self-worth
• Ability to trust others or form stable relationships
• Risk of developing anxiety, depression, or substance misuse
• Academic performance or future life opportunities

It’s important to understand that no two children experience these challenges the same way. Some may cope outwardly well but struggle internally. Others may display behaviours that reflect what’s happening at home, such as acting out, withdrawing, or falling behind at school.

Learn more: The effects of substance misuse

Recognising the signs of a child affected by alcohol misuse

Children living with a parent who misuses alcohol often go unnoticed. They might be quiet and withdrawn, or they might act out. They may not say what’s wrong, but their behaviour often tells a story.

Recognising the signs is an essential first step in helping a child get the support they need. Whether you’re a teacher, relative, neighbour, or friend, being aware of the warning signs can make all the difference:

• Anxiety, depression, or excessive worry
• Feelings of guilt or self-blame for their parent’s behaviour
• Low self-esteem or fear of social judgement
• Difficulty concentrating in school or frequent absenteeism
• Acting out, displaying aggression, or engaging in risky behaviour
• Withdrawal from friends and activities
• Poor hygiene or signs of neglect
• Tiredness or fatigue, potentially due to disrupted sleep patterns at home

These signs are not definitive, and they can have many causes. But if you notice a pattern or your instincts tell you something isn’t right, it’s worth reaching out and seeking help.

The role of alcohol testing in safeguarding

When families are affected by alcohol misuse, rebuilding trust and stability can be a long and difficult journey.

In these situations, alcohol testing can be a powerful tool, providing reassurance, protecting children’s welfare, and helping parents demonstrate accountability as part of their recovery.

Supporting recovery and rebuilding trust

For parents in recovery, alcohol testing can be used to demonstrate sobriety, helping to rebuild relationships with children, social workers or family members. Knowing that testing is in place can offer peace of mind to loved ones and strengthen the parent’s own commitment to change.

Evidence in legal and child protection matters

In cases where a child’s welfare is being assessed, such as child custody proceedings or safeguarding investigations, alcohol testing provides an independent and reliable form of evidence, helping professionals make informed decisions based on facts.

At AlphaBiolabs, we work closely with family solicitors, local authorities, social workers and members of the public looking for private testing, providing a comprehensive range of alcohol testing options to cover different timeframes and case requirements.

All testing is conducted at our ISO 17025-accredited laboratory, including hair, nail and blood alcohol testing.

We also offer breath alcohol testing and SCRAM Continuous Alcohol Monitoring®.

How AlphaBiolabs can help

Alcohol testing can be a powerful tool in supporting families affected by alcohol misuse, particularly parents looking to demonstrate sobriety and accountability, providing additional reassurance for family members and strengthening recovery plans. 

If you or someone you know could benefit from alcohol testing services, AlphaBiolabs is here to help.

With over 20 years’ experience providing alcohol testing for legal professionals, social workers, local authorities and private individuals who need alcohol testing for official matters, we are fully equipped to support you whatever your circumstances.

For more information, call us on 01 402 9466 or email info@alphabiolabs.ie, and our friendly, knowledgeable Customer Services team will be happy to discuss your requirements.