On May 4 and 5 the Glenbard Parent Series hosted best-selling author of the "Gift of Failure "Jessica Lahey at a program titled, “Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence” which is the title of her most recent book.
Jessica Lahey is a teacher, writer, and mom. Over twenty years, she’s taught every grade from sixth to twelfth in both public and private schools. She writes about education, parenting, and child welfare for The Atlantic, Vermont Public Radio, The Washington Post and the New York Times.
Jordan Esser the Coordinator of the Prevention Leadership Team of the DuPage County Health Department participated in the event on May 5 and shared the following takeaway:
"Open communication, role modeling and monitoring are the cornerstone of healthy families. Talk to your children honestly about their 'adverse childhood experiences' -the ACEs /risk factors, that might lead to substance use disorder. Delay, delay, delay as time is an important protective factor. A rapid, unaccounted for change in behavior should be of concern- intervene early. Be aware of your messaging around alcohol like 'this helps me relax', and heightened risk times like summer and the transition to high school. Give your kids self -efficacy, and the belief that they can succeed and make their lives better. Love the child in front of you - not just their performance. Start the conversation early, be prepared with data, don’t lecture, and listen even when you disagree."
A recording of the student and school staff directed question and answer session can be found HERE
Resources mentioned by Lahey in her presentation
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) from CDC
Parenting in Place Masterclass
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration)
Books mentioned by Lahey in her presentation
Fostering Resilience and Well-Being in Children and Families in Poverty: Why Hope Still Matters by Valerie Maholmes
Interviews with Lahey
Link to a WGN radio interview with Jessica Lahey on May 4 HERE
Rachel Steinman Podcast Dear Family with Jessica Lahey as guest HERE
People Magazine, April 14, 2021: Author Jessica Lahey Turned Her Alcoholism Into Mission to Protect Kids From Substance Abuse HERE
Drug Free Coalitions in partnership with Glenbard Parent Series (click for details)
DuPage County Health Department's Prevention Leadership Team
City of Elmhurst Commission on Youth
Prevention and Treatment Resource Links
Please click HERE for a list of local/community-based organizations focused on the mental health and substance use issues of youth. Contains contact details of these providers.
