5 Books for Adult Children of Alcoholics

28 million people in the United states are adult child of an alcoholics (ACOAs). Growing up in an alcoholic home puts people at risk for addiction, relationship problems, depression, anxiety. It can be difficult to navigate the complex and often painful emotions that come with growing up in an unhealthy household. One way to cope is through reading about the experiences of others who have grown up in similar circumstances and have come out on the other side. Here are five books written by ACOAs, that can help adult children better understand their experiences and find healing:

1. “The Misery to Mastery Workbook: “Straight Talking Facts and Worksheets to Conquer Symptoms of Being an Adult Child of an Alcoholic!” by Sofya Vasilyeva. It is an eight chapter book, each chapter will help you deepen your understanding of your condition and then provide exercises to help you challenge your thoughts and connect deeper with your emotions. It is based on research and Vasilyeva’s collected experience with helping ACOAs. This book gives you hands-on tools and nuanced information to take power into your hands and conquer the ACOA syndrome. This is a no-nonsense approach to help you understand how your upbringing harms you today, break out of toxic family patterns and let go of past hurts. This book addresses childhood trauma, attachment styles, relationships, communication patterns, self-esteem, emotional salience techniques and more. It is designed in a way that each reader will go through an individualized journey that is fit for their personal history and struggles.
2. “The ACoA Trauma Syndrome: The Impact of Childhood Pain on Intimacy and Relationships” by Dr. Tian Dayton. This book examines trauma through an exploration of the way the brain and body process frightening or painful emotions and experiences in childhood, and explores how these traumas can become catalysts for unhealthy, self-medicating behaviors including drug and alcohol abuse, food issues, and sex, gambling, and shopping addictions.
3. “Adult Children of Alcoholics” by Janet Woititz is a classic in the field of recovery literature. In this book, Woititz explores the common characteristics and experiences of adult children of alcoholics, and how they can learn to overcome the legacy of their upbringing. Through Woititz’s compassionate and understanding voice, readers can gain insight into their own experiences and find hope for healing and recovery. This book is a must-read for anyone who has grown up in an alcoholic household and is seeking to understand and heal from their past.
4. “Affirmations for the Inner Child of the Alcoholic/Dysfunctional Family” by ACA is a helpful and uplifting resource for adult children of alcoholics seeking to heal and find inner peace. Through a series of affirmations and meditations, readers connect with their inner child and rebuild a sense of self-worth and confidence. Whether you’re in the early stages of recovery or have been working on healing for some time, this book offers valuable guidance and support on your journey towards healing.
5. “Perfect Daughters: Adult Daughters of Alcoholics” is a self-help book written by Robert J. Ackerman focuses on the experiences and challenges faced by women who grew up with alcoholic parents. The book aims to help readers understand the effects of growing up in an alcoholic household and offers strategies for overcoming the negative patterns and behaviors that can be passed down from one generation to the next. Through a combination of personal anecdotes and professional advice, “Perfect Daughters” provides a supportive and empowering resource for those looking to heal and move forward from their experiences with alcoholism in their family.

If you’re an adult child of an alcoholic, these books can provide valuable insight and support as you work through the challenges and emotions that come with this experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out for additional help and support as you navigate this journey.

Wishing you a healing journey,

Sofya Vass (Vasilyeva)