Examining Children from Family Addiction Backgrounds at the Film Showing: Professionals Focus on Childhood Memories

In the heart of Regensburg, the Landratsamt played host to a poignant event, organised by the "Regensburger Kreis für Suchttherapie und Suchthilfe." The focus of this gathering was to shed light on the often-hidden world of children growing up in families affected by addiction.

The event provided valuable insights into this sensitive topic, with attending professionals from the support system emphasizing the importance of recognizing "blind spots" and overcoming the silence surrounding the issue. They highlighted the sensitization to the needs of these children as a central aspect in dealing with them effectively.

The autobiographical short film "Memories of a Forgotten Childhood" by Lars Smekal was the centrepiece of the event. This film portrays the life of an 11-year-old named Niklas, who struggles with his mother's alcohol addiction and his father's gambling addiction. The audience was deeply moved by the authentic and open portrayal of the director's childhood, with many finding the encounter on an equal level with those affected particularly valuable.

The film tells the story of a child growing up in a home affected by addiction from a first-person perspective, offering a unique and powerful insight into the challenges faced by these children. It was followed by a Q&A session with Lars Smekal, allowing participants to engage in an open discussion about the film and the broader topic of childhood addiction.

For those seeking help and support, several resources were highlighted during the event. Drugstop akut, located at Landshuterstr. 10, 93047 Regensburg, can be reached at 0941 / 37 80 37 50. The Fachambulanz für Suchtprobleme der Caritas can be contacted at Hemauerstr. 10c, 93047 Regensburg, Phone: 0941 / 63 08 27-0. The Landratsamt - Gesundheitsamt für Stadt und Landkreis can be reached at Altmühlstr. 3, 93059 Regensburg, Phone: 0941 / 4009 -724 or -758.

It's important to note that children from families affected by addiction are the largest known risk group for later developing an addiction themselves (Nacoa Germany). This underscores the importance of the work being done by organisations like the Regensburger Kreis für Suchttherapie und Suchthilfe and the resources they provide.

The event contributed significantly to strengthening the awareness and capabilities of professionals in dealing with this sensitive topic. By fostering open discussions and providing practical resources, it aimed to break the silence and offer hope to children affected by addiction and their families.

Examining Children from Family Addiction Backgrounds at the Film Showing: Professionals Focus on Childhood Memories