When children are found on the scene of a drug-related crime, most often they are not officially identified as crime victims.  In such cases they are typically released to their parents or to other adult family members and soon find themselves back in the same situation or worse.

Children living with a substance abusing parent are at higher risk for exposure to violence or traumatic events, child abuse, child sexual abuse, or gross neglect of basic needs (food, hygiene).  The home environment may have illicit drugs or weapons within reach of curious young hands and mouths.  Longer-term consequences for drug-endangered children include mental illness, behavioral difficulties, poor social skills, low self-esteem, learning disabilities, motor skill deficits and language delays.

Parental substance abuse or dependence was estimated to be a factor in up to 50% of all cases of potential child abuse or neglect reviewed by child protective services nationwide.

An estimated 8.3 million U.S. children and adolescents who are living with a substance abusing parent have developed substance abuse or dependence problems themselves, and are in need of treatment.

For more info please visit the National Alliance for Drug-Endangered Children.