In the United States, one in five persons had an alcoholic parent while they were children. These kids had a higher risk of emotional issues than those who were reared in families where alcoholism wasn't prevalent, whether it was their mother, father, guardian, or relative. As adult children of alcoholics (ACOA), their chances of developing alcoholism are four times higher than those of regular people. Depression treatment center Florida can help you understand and process the consequences of a childhood spent in an addictive environment.

These kids were raised in dysfunctional homes where instability, ambiguity, and unpredictable behavior were normal. They were more likely to experience abuse, terror, fear-mongering, violence, and neglect. At critical junctures in their development, they frequently did not get the emotional support and connection they required. It's possible that they were never taught how to take care of themselves or develop positive relationships. Consequently, licensed mental health counselors in Florida frequently observe certain behavioral and psychological features in adult children of alcoholics.

According to the Alcoholism Guide, both ACOA pioneer Tony A. and best-selling author Dr. Janet Woititz developed this list of the eight most common characteristics of adult children of alcoholics.

1. Difficulty Standing Up for Themselves

Most adult offspring of alcoholics are accustomed to prioritizing their needs before their own. They start to think that their own feelings and thoughts don't matter. They find it challenging to advocate for themselves because of this style of thinking. When they do, they frequently feel bad about it. They frequently give in to others because they believe that their needs are not as significant as those of others.

2. Problems with Relationships

Alcoholics and others with obsessive tendencies are particularly attractive to adult children of alcoholics because they are both emotionally unavailable. They frequently draw toward those that require saving. They avoid confronting their own inadequacies or troubles by putting others' needs before their own. They frequently stay in toxic relationships for an excessive amount of time since they typically do not know how to interact positively with someone.

3. Inability to Have Fun

Many alcoholics' adult children find it difficult to unwind and enjoy themselves. They experience worry and fear as a result. They were the ones in charge when they were young. They think that in order to appear ideal to others and retain rigorous self-control as adults. They believe they have no right to enjoy themselves.

4. Isolation

Adult offspring of alcoholics are never taught what constitutes a proper response to a circumstance. They believe they are different from other individuals because they lack the necessary response skills. They feel different, think they can't get along with others, or think people should make an exception for their behavior. As a result, making social ties may be avoided in favor of seclusion.

5. Extreme Self-Criticism

Adult offspring of alcoholic parents grew up constantly questioning their worth. They might take responsibility for their parent's drinking. They are really hard on themselves as adults. They have extremely low levels of worthiness, respect, and self-esteem.

6. Feelings of Depression & Anxiety

When a child is raised in an alcoholic environment, they frequently experience guilt and shame, which makes them withdraw and be secretive. They think that no one can comprehend them. Their ability to develop social skills is negatively impacted by this thinking. These emotions persist into adulthood and cause mood disorders like despair and anxiety.

7. Fear of Abandonment

Alcoholic adults have a parent that is incapable of providing them with either physical or emotional support. A fear of abandonment emerges in childhood. Adults who worry about being left behind may cling to destructive or unhealthful relationships. They want to prevent being left behind or abandoned.

8. Avoidance of Conflict

Adult children of alcoholics treatment frequently experience a dread of angry or powerful people. They can assume someone who is aggressive is furious. They do not react well when someone criticizes them. They cease to be themselves because they are constantly attempting to get the approval of others. They frequently withdraw to cope.