What is KOPP/KOV?

KOPP' stands for 'Children of Parents with Psychiatric Problems'. 'KOV' stands for 'Children of Parents with Addiction Problems'. Research by the Trimbos Institute shows that in the Netherlands about 900,000 children under the age of 18 living at home grow up with a parent with psychological problems and/or addiction. That is about 1 in 4 children.

Children of parents with mental health problems (KOPP) and children of parents with addiction problems (KOV) are at increased risk of developing psychological or addiction problems themselves. KOPP/KOV groups have been developed for these children. These are support groups for fellow sufferers. Children who are dealing with a brother or sister who has psychological or addiction problems are also welcome here. Or if there is tension or stress in the home situation.

Participation in a KOPP/KOV group can reduce the risk of disorders (later in life) by 40%.

In the KOPP/KOV group:

• participants can share with each other what they experience at home;
• participants learn to recognize, deal with and express emotions and feelings;
• participants receive information about mental illness and addiction;
• participants learn about shame and guilt, loyalty and letting go.

If you grow up with a father or mother who cannot provide the care you need as a child, it can take a considerable toll on your life – even if you are already an adult. The participants in Arkin's KOPP-KOV groups know this all too well. The KOPP/KOV group helps children of parents with mental health problems or addiction to place their experiences and find a new way to relate to their parents. Group leader Daisy and group member Peer explain how it works.