National Alcohol Awareness Month

Growing up in a dysfunctional household can be unpredictable, and being raised by an alcoholic parent can create issues that last a lifetime. Dr. Joel Kuppersmith is a psychologist in Huntington, NY who helps patients heal from the patterns of behavior often perpetuated in an alcoholic family system. Since April is National Alcohol Awareness Month, our team would like to share information about adult children of alcoholics and how we can help. Continue reading to learn more. 

Adult Children of Alcoholics

Alcohol abuse affects the person abusing the alcohol and their family or friends. Children of alcoholic parents may carry the emotional turmoil from their childhood into adulthood, which can significantly impact their relationships and how they manage conflict and stress. Many adult children of alcoholics share characteristics with those affected by physical, sexual, or emotional abuse or post-traumatic stress disorder. There are a few common characteristics of an adult child of alcoholism, some of which include:

• Strong need for approval. 
• People-pleasing behaviors. 
• Inability to develop an identity or sense of self. 
• Controlling behavior. 
• Alcohol abuse. 
• Compulsivity. 
• Depression.
• Anxiety.
• Difficulty with intimacy. 
• Fear of abandonment.
• Low self-esteem. 

If any of these characteristics apply to you, our psychologist in Huntington, NY is here to help. Dr. Joel Kuppersmith can help you cope with the effects of growing up in an alcoholic household and understand the impact your parents’ addiction has had on you. Therapy can help you learn more about your own needs, establish trust, develop a stronger support system, and cultivate a higher sense of self-worth. We understand that every experience is different, so we will help outline an effective treatment plan to guide and support you on your path towards healing and recovery.   

Contact Our Psychologist in Huntington, NY

Healing from the trauma of growing up in a volatile environment can take time, and the lingering effects of a difficult childhood can follow you throughout your lifetime unless you confront the issue. Whether it’s emotional difficulties or your own addiction, our psychologist in Huntington, NY is here to help you work through your concerns and support you through your healing process. Be sure to contact Dr. Joel Kuppersmith today to schedule an appointment!