Germany's Awareness Week Shines Light on Children of Addicted Families

From February 22 to 28, 2026, Germany will mark its Awareness Week for Children from Addiction-Affected Families. The campaign, organised by NACOA Germany, aims to highlight the struggles of young people growing up with addicted parents. This year's theme, 'We Are Becoming Visible,' seeks to break the silence around a problem affecting millions. In Germany, roughly one in five or six children lives with a parent battling addiction. Despite the scale, stigma often prevents these children from speaking out or seeking help. NACOA Germany stresses the need for greater public awareness to ensure affected families receive support. The week will promote early intervention as a key tool in preventing future addiction or mental health issues. Schools are playing a role too, with interactive courses teaching young children about addiction and where to turn for help. These programmes aim to equip kids with knowledge before problems escalate. Support services are available across the country. In Halle and the Saale district, addiction counselling centres offer free, confidential, and anonymous help, with open office hours every day. For those unable to visit in person, online platforms like DigiSucht and bke Online Counseling provide remote assistance. Experts also call for stronger cooperation between local services. They urge municipalities and districts to create binding links between maternity wards, youth welfare, and addiction support. Better coordination could ensure families receive timely and effective help. The awareness week puts a spotlight on children often left in the shadows. With accessible counselling, school programmes, and improved local partnerships, the campaign aims to give these young people the support they need. Early action, organisers say, can make a lasting difference in their lives.