Exploring caregiver perspectives in the context of parental substance use: A qualitative study

Parental substance use is a substantial public health and safeguarding concern. Research examining the impact of parental substance use upon children is well-established, but there is a lack of research examining how parents/caregivers cope with their parenting role within the context of another parent's substance use, or how best to support these parents/caregivers. This paper examines the experiences and support needs of parents/caregivers impacted by another parent's substance use. Nineteen parents/caregivers from substance exposed families via local community-based voluntary sector support organizations, in urban and rural settings in northeast England. Qualitative, in-depth interviews with caregivers (mothers, fathers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, aged 25 to 65+ years) of dependent aged children (aged 4 to17 years) in substance exposed families. Thematic analysis explored their experiences and support needs. Cumulative stress impacted parents/caregivers in their parenting role, creating further challenges in caring for children impacted by another parent's substance use. Parents/caregivers felt their needs went unrecognized by support services, and interactions with statutory services frequently exacerbated their stress. Parents/caregivers worried about what to disclose to children about substance use and how and when to do this. Parents/caregivers attempted to mitigate the risk of another parent's substance use upon the children in their care. They often perceived lack of appropriate support specifically for parents/caregivers, particularly considering the extra challenges they faced caring for children in the context of parental substance use. Resources to support parents/caregivers in talking with children about these issues may offer guidance and reassurance to caregivers to alleviate some of their stress.