Movie event: "Recollections of a Forgotten Childhood" - Experts examine children from families with addiction issues
In Regensburg, Germany, the Addiction Working Group recently organised an event at the District Office, highlighting the importance of recognising and addressing the needs of children affected by addiction. The focus of the event was the autobiographical short film "Erinnerungen an eine vergessene Kindheit" (Memories of a Forgotten Childhood) by Lars Smekal, produced by the Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule (OTH) Regensburg.
The film tells the story of 11-year-old Niklas, who experiences his mother's alcohol addiction and father's gambling addiction. It portrays the intense cycle of addiction, betrayal, abandonment, and helplessness that often characterises such households. After the screening, Smekal answered questions and participated in an in-depth conversation, providing deeper insights into the film's creation and his personal experiences.
Approximately 3 million children in Germany live with at least one parent affected by addiction, making them the largest known risk group for developing their own addiction. The event emphasised the need to recognise "blind spots" in dealing with these children and to sensitise family members, neighbours, teachers, and educators to the challenges they face.
For those seeking help and support, several resources are available in Regensburg. The Regensburg District Office - Public Health Department for the City and County can be contacted at 0941 / 4009 -724 or -758. For immediate assistance, Drugstop akut (Drug Help Regensburg) located at Landshuterstr. 10, 93047 Regensburg, can be reached at 0941 / 37 80 37 50. For more comprehensive addiction counseling, Caritas Fachambulanz for Addiction Problems, located at Hemauerstr. 10c, 93047 Regensburg, can be reached at 0941 / 63 08 27-0.
The event was well-received, with attendees appreciating the encounter on an equal level with those affected. It served as a powerful reminder of the impact addiction can have on children and the importance of addressing this often overlooked issue.
