International COA Week 2021
COA (Children of Alcoholics) Week is a campaign to raise awareness of children affected by parental alcohol problems, celebrated internationally each year during the week in which Valentine’s Day falls. In the UK, the campaign is led by the charity Nacoa (The National Association for Children of Alcoholics) UK who provide year-round support. The campaign aims to increase awareness of this hidden problem and the support available.
Who are Nacoa?
Nacoa is here to address the needs of children growing up in families where one or both parents suffer from alcoholism or a similar addictive problem. This includes children of all ages, many of whose problems only become apparent in adulthood. They are here for children, adults, concerned others and professionals alike. Their helpline for everyone affected by a parent’s alcohol problems is the heart of Nacoa’s work. It is a safe place where you can talk about things that are going on for you and how you are feeling. Sometimes just talking or writing to can help. If you would like to talk to someone, you can call their free, confidential helpline 0800 358 3456 or email: helpline@nacoa.org.uk. Helpline Covid opening hours: Monday to Saturday 12 noon to 9pm (email) – 2pm – 7pm (telephone).
COA Support
Living with alcoholism can be stressful. It is important to take care of yourself. Try not to bottle up your feelings. Sharing your feelings isn’t being disloyal to your family. It can help you to feel less alone.
- Visit Nacoa.org.uk for information, advice and support
- Talk to someone you trust
- Call the Nacoa helpline 0800 358 3456 or email helpline@nacoa.org.uk
- Talk to others in similar situations
- Keep a journal or write a letter. You can email it to Nacoa too if you like.
- Try to keep doing things you enjoy. It can help you forget about problems at home for a while.
