The Addiction Inoculation

Starred review from April 5, 2021
“Effective prevention requires us to understand why a kid picks up that first mind-altering chemical,” writes journalist and teacher Lahey (The Gift of Failure) in this powerful guide to countering youth substance abuse. After battling her own alcohol addiction in her 40s, Lahey vowed to “figure out how to prevent my children from having to travel the same path.” She offers a look at the history of various anti-drug campaigns (such as D.A.R.E.’s scare tactics) and the science behind adolescent behavior and addiction, and tackles such topics as the destructive spiral of shame and silence, the connection between stress and substance abuse, and the importance of “self-efficacy” in kids. Lahey offers no shortage of advice: turn off phones and TVs to make time for open conversations about addiction, respond without judgment if kids mess up, and spell out family expectations (“We don’t take illegal drugs”). Most memorable are the experiences of Lahey’s former students, such as one who made a moving turnaround after a stint in rehab. Urgent and practical, this is a must-read for parents, teachers, and anyone working with teenagers. Agent: Laurie Abkemeier, DeFiore & Co.

November 1, 2020

"The branches of my family tree hang heavy with substance abuse disorder," says Lahey, a recovering alcoholic. "Taking a nap" was a euphemism for passing out, and sharing concern about a relative's drinking or pill use would lead to punishment during her tumultuous childhood. As a teacher in substance abuse programs, Lahey desired to help her own children and others like them end the legacy of addiction. Since children's brains are cognitively and functionally different from adults, they will respond differently to alcohol. The younger kids are when they start using, the more likely they are to develop substance disorders as an adult, so Lahey asserts it is essential to address issues related to dependence at a young age. Adolescents are biologically wired to seek out novelty and risk, and Lahey provides ways to capitalize on that reality in a positive direction. Talking openly about family risk and banishing secrets and shame are some of the tools in the author's arsenal for fighting addiction. VERDICT This book combines expertise with humble personal experience to show how modeling, believing in our children, and valuing learning instead of accolades will go a long way toward preventing addiction.

Copyright 2020 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 1, 2021
Education and parenting journalist Lahey presents a memoir of--and research-backed guide to--negotiating the world of substance abuse. Intoxicants have been with us since the beginning of civilization, writes the author, easing "the ache of common injuries as well as the pain of being human." In this intimate, fruitful work, she opens with a candid account of her own alcoholism before moving on to an explanation of the deleterious effects of alcohol and drugs on the developing brains of adolescents and young adults. Lahey's foray into neurobiology is shaped by peer-reviewed journals, so the science is solid, as are her emotional and behavioral insights into mental health. In straightforward prose, the author documents the risks for the young, from ages approximately 10 to 24, including differing triggers for males and females and protective measures that can be deployed to help contend with peer pressure and other factors that may lead them to substance abuse. In addition to examining the effects of epigenetics, ADHD, and "adverse childhood experiences," Lahey compassionately lays out the societal pressures that can result in toxic stress and aggressive behavior. She emphasizes the importance of keeping open transparent lines of communication and relying on "evidence-based information" in the fight to prevent addiction. What does not work, she points out, is a parental approach that focuses on "lies and scare tactics." Lahey also provides recommendations such as keeping the alcohol locked up, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, avoiding "secrets and shame," and getting a pet. Some of the author's suggestions may not stick with hormone-soaked teens--e.g., mindfulness practice, quiet time, invoking the serenity prayer--but there's enough here to offer a solid plan for parents. While "every substance abuse story begins at home," Lahey also introduces inoculation theory, life-skills training, and an array of signals to watch out for during the schooling years. Foundational advice to steer young adults away from the urges and temptations that lead to substance abuse.

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