Growing up in the chaotic, unreal world of alcoholic parenting.

This piece has been courageously written, anonymously. If you feel affected by what you read, always know that Nacoa is here to offer help and support. If you feel moved to write something yourself, then please get in touch.   The first time I saw a leaflet for children of alcoholics in my GP’s surgery…

45+7=? 

This piece has been written by blogger Shannon M O’Regan who’s blog can be found at http://www.shannonmoregan.wprdpress.com, where you will also find her social media links.   “It took me a long time to realise we are not meant to be perfect; we are meant to be whole” Jane Fonda Fragments and pieces. Look closely….

Brothers, same alcoholic dad, different outcome?!

There was always something that laid heavy on me most of my life, that caused me confusion, pain, and in a lot of ways prevented me properly seeking the help I needed and deserved. It was 1 of the main things that headed the list of the reasons why I thought I knew I was…

Coming to terms with my dad’s death, in my own way.

This piece is written by Amelia Carr, who is the sister of Joe who blogged for us back in November, writing ‘Losing my father for the second time.’ Amelia wanted to write her piece to show ‘even when you have similar experiences with the same alcoholic parent, it can take you down different routes.’  …

I need your love. 

I’ve always wanted to be loved. I say that, and for some reason it still makes my feel uneasy. I don’t really know why, I’m no expert, but I know that I’ve always wanted to be loved. I think everyone does right? Well, alcoholism has a way of snatching that ability to feel loved away…

A Pre-Christmas Rummage. 

Today’s piece is an anonymously written poem. I was looking for presents ahead of time – a crime, sacred secrets! – yet I had to know if there was any sign of hope for me in Mummy’s furnishings that advent time. My doubts were confirmed, and worse. Instead of shiny shapes for me, dull bottles…

Jekyll and Hyde

Every child should be allowed to experience, what being a kid is all about. Not a care in the world, happy, laughing, playing with friends, make memories, enjoying school etc. It’s hard when I’m in any situation growing up when people around me discussed their childhood. I have blocked out a lot of mine as…

Lost in the confusion of my parents drinking.

If you’d asked me about my childhood when I was 20, I would have told you it was ‘great’ and I truly would’ve believed it, whether that was because the layers of denial were so deep or because I knew no different I couldn’t even tell you now. I don’t think that was the beginning…

How I see change for children of alcoholics!

In light of the amazing Liam Byrne’s campaign for change, and more help for children of alcoholics, I thought I’d  outlay some of my thoughts. Firstly it was a great turn out at the all-party parliamentary group meeting on the 15th September, and great to hear some passionate input from a host of different people,…

Getting less anxious… About our anxiety!

Anxiety is something nearly every child of an alcoholic I have ever spoken to has had experience with in some form or another. So what is anxiety? A quick Google search and here’s the definition that comes up at the top- anxiety aŋˈzʌɪəti/ noun 1. a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with…