Substance use Disorder (sud)

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a mental health disorder characterized by the compulsive use of substances, such as alcohol or drugs, despite the harmful effects they may have on a person's health, relationships, and daily life. Substance use can have a far-reaching impact that extends beyond the individual and affects the entire family, especially children.


According to the National Alliance For Drug Endangered Children (NADEC), approximately 1 in 8 children, or an estimated 8.7 million children ages 17 and younger, live in households where at least one parent has a substance use disorder.

1 in 8 children live with a caregiver with substance abuse disorder

Substance Use Disorder affects families and communities everywhere, including right here in Eddy County. As CASA volunteers, staying informed about how substance use can impact children helps us better understand the experiences of the children we serve and advocate for their safety, stability, and well-being.

Ways Substance Use Can Affect Children

When a child lives in a home affected by substance use, it can impact their emotional well-being, sense of safety, and daily life. Children may experience:


  • Emotional Distress: Anxiety, fear, sadness, or confusion.
  • Unstable Home Life: Changes in routines, caregiving, and family relationships.
  • Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal, anger, aggression, or difficulty coping.
  • School Challenges: Trouble concentrating, attending school, or keeping up academically.
  • Taking on Adult Roles: Caring for siblings or responsibilities beyond their age.
  • Mental Health Challenges: Increased risk of anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
  • Social Isolation: Feeling embarrassed or afraid to talk about what is happening at home.
  • Long-Term Effects: Experiences related to substance use can contribute to trauma, but supportive relationships and safe, stable adults can help children build resilience.

more Resources

video

This video helps CASA volunteers better understand how addiction works, the factors that can contribute to substance use, and how prevention and support can make a difference.

research and reports

Subtance use & mental health

The CDC Mental Health Data Channel uses recent data to tell the story of mental health and well-being in the U.S. This page shares information about youth and adult overdose deaths and youth substance use. Data is available at the national and state level for recent years.

Website

This resource explores how substance use can affect the entire family, especially children. For CASA volunteers, understanding these impacts can help us recognize how substance use may contribute to trauma, instability, or challenges in a child’s life and better advocate for their safety, well-being, and needs.

Guides & Handouts

This guide provides age-appropriate approaches and strategies for supporting children impacted by Substance Use Disorder (SUD).