Children whose parents have substance use disorder live with trauma and serious chronic unmanaged stress with limited access to any help. Their family environments are chaotic and can include all forms of abuse including profound neglect.

A growing body of research has made it increasingly apparent that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a critical public health issue. When overwhelmed by a threat and without the ability to defend oneself successfully, a child becomes stuck in survival mode. Childhood trauma and chronic stress of parental addiction can cause lifelong effects. The effects of these traumas can be passed down intergenerationally, with parents often carrying the same burdens.

Details regarding resiliency is explored. Two activities will be introduced which are used in Education Support groups, and resources are provided that can assist in the development of these groups in many settings.