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Every February, International COA Awareness Week highlights the experiences of Children of Alcoholics (COAs), with the aim of raising awareness and understanding for children who’ve been impacted by a parent’s drinking.
Founded by The National Association for Children of Alcoholics, and running from 9-15 February, International COA Week is dedicated to amplifying the voices of COAs, promoting resources for wellbeing, and encouraging communities to foster environments in which they can thrive.
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 does COA mean?
The term Children of Alcoholics (COAs) refers to people who grow or grew up in households where one or both parents struggle with alcohol misuse.
According to figures published by the Health Research Board, nearly a third of children (32%) in Ireland live with at least one parent who is either a regular binge drinker or dependent on alcohol.
For these children, the impact of living with parental alcohol misuse can be far-reaching and profoundly challenging, with some of the most common effects including emotional issues, behavioural difficulties and developmental delays.
How can you tell if a child is being impacted by parental alcohol misuse?
Recognising the signs of a child affected by parental alcohol misuse is crucial for ensuring the child gets the support they need as soon as possible.
Here are a few signs that schools, families and communities can look out for:
- 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
The role of alcohol testing
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.
It can also play a fundamental role in child welfare and custody proceedings, where evidence of alcohol use or abstinence is required.
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.
Our in-house toxicologists can analyse a variety of samples for the presence of alcohol biomarkers at our state-of-the-art, ISO 17025-accredited laboratory, including hair, nail and blood samples. We also offer breath testing.
For more information, call us on 01 402 9466 or email info@alphabiolabs.ie, and our friendly, discreet Customer Services team will be happy to discuss your requirements.
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Learn more about our full range of alcohol testing services.
