Resources for Families, Teens and Children
For Kids
- Addiction Q and A from NACOA
Do you have questions about addiction? Find answers here. - Letter from a child
Are you a kid with a mom or dad that drinks too much? This is a letter that was written by a child of an alcoholic who is grown-up. No two families are exactly alike, but maybe you have some similar feelings. - The 12 Steps for Kids
The 12 Steps for kids from the Betty Ford Center helps kids connect with recovery. - Video: Under the Influence: Kids of Alcoholics
Kids with alcoholic parents talk about all the challenges they face
For Teens
- Harlem Students Ask Dr. NIDA
NIDAs Dr. Volkow meets with 100 students at a Harlem high school for an open discussion about addiction (first video). - NACOAs Shouting Inside Teen Blog
A place for teens to express their feelings about how addiction has impacted them. - Video: The Teenage Brain Part 1
Dr. Frances Jensen from the Children’s Hospital Boston talks about the teenage brain (3-parts). - You Tube Video: Officer Training "The Teenage Brain"
Dr. Jean Clinton talks about the teenage brain. - YouTube Video: Bullying and the Brain
Dr. Jean Clinton shares tips for parents about bullying and the brain
For Parents
- Parents ask Dr. NIDA
NIDAs Dr. Volkow meets with parents to discuss addiction (second video). - Teen Drug Abuse
14 Mistakes Parents Make - YouTube Video: Bullying and the Brain
Dr. Jean Clinton shares tips for parents about bullying and the brain
For Families (General)
- A Family Guide to Concurrent Disorders (PDF)
People with addictions often suffer from mental health issues and vice versa. CAMH’s guide helps families understand concurrent disorders. - Chemical Dependency and the Family
Dr. Robert Ackerman, Renascent’s Director of Family Program Development, sheds light on chemical dependency and the family. - Hazelden Conversation Guides
What do you say to someone who drinks too much? To help you speak to your loved one, Hazelden has created several conversation guides to lead you through an honest and compassionate approach.




