The lost child is a common role in families affected by addiction, where the child retreats into solitude to avoid conflict and protect themselves. Often invisible within the family system, they suppress their needs and emotions, believing this helps reduce the family’s burden. While this coping strategy offers safety, it can lead to deep loneliness and distorted self-worth. For therapists, recognising the lost child’s patterns is key to helping clients reconnect with their needs, build self-awareness, and move toward healing.