Alcohol Action Ireland reports over 200,000 children affected by parental drinking

Alcohol Action Ireland (AAI) has released a new report indicating that more than 200,000 children in Ireland are living with harm caused by a parent’s drinking.

The study found that one in three Irish children has a parent who regularly binge drinks or is dependent on alcohol, and estimates that up to 1.5 million people in the State are, or have been, affected by alcohol‑related harm in the home.

AAI warns that such exposure can lead to lifelong health impacts, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, early death and an increased likelihood of addiction in adulthood.

The report calls for direct services for children regardless of whether a parent is in treatment, and stresses the need for adequate training for health, education and other professionals who encounter affected children.

While the Government’s recent removal of alcohol from the front of shops was praised, AAI argues further action is required to protect children and break the cycle of harm.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Dzenina Lukac / Pexels.