Life is like a coin. You can spend it any way you wish, but you only spend it once. ~Lillian Dickson
A book targeted at helping children of parents struggling with an alcohol or drug addiction is now available in Northern Ireland. The book, called “Rory” tells the story of a dog who cannot understand why his owner is acting in a certain way, until it is explained this is because he has a problem with alcohol.
It is estimated that one in eleven children in Northern Ireland live with a parent who has an addiction to drugs or alcohol.
Cathy Mullan, interim lead for Alcohol and Drugs at the Public Health Agency in Belfast, said the book was “an excellent resource for young children where alcohol is having a negative impact on their lives.”
“The plan aims to raise awareness of the impact of drugs and alcohol on families and to increase the range of support services available to them,” said Mullan.
The book has been warmly received, according to Ed Sipler of the South Eastern Trust.
“Your parent’s drinking is not your fault, you are not alone and it’s okay to talk about it,” said Sipler. “These are messages children living in these circumstances need to hear often.”
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