Background: Despite Ireland’s high levels of alcohol consumption and related harms, there remains no comprehensive review synthesising the full impact of Parental Problem Alcohol Use (PPAU) on young people. As a result, these young people remain overlooked in research, policy, and practice, with their needs unmet and their long-term well-being compromised. This gap highlights the urgent need to examine the impacts of PPAU across the lifespan, the coping mechanisms and resilience strategies employed, and the adequacy of available supports.

Methods: This narrative review systematically searched several databases and grey literature applying an inclusive search strategy. Findings from varied study designs were thematically synthesised to explore PPAU across Irish and international contexts.

Results: Evidence highlights complex harms spanning health, psychological, behavioural, relational, and educational domains, many of which persist into adulthood. Young people frequently adopt escapism coping strategies, while rates of formal help-seeking remain low. Existing supports are fragmented, adult-focused, and often fail to centre young people’s needs.

Conclusions: PPAU remains under-recognised within child and family policy. Key priorities include investment in services, the integration of trauma-informed approaches, and a national strategy integrating alcohol policy with child welfare across Ireland.