Summary
In 2006, nearly 11 million young people from the ages of 12 to 20 reported using alcohol, and nearly 10 percent of those aged 12 to 17 reported using illicit drugs. Alcohol and drug abuse often starts younger than most people are aware of, and the key to addressing and preventing this problem is to educate young people about the risks and factors involved. Alcoholism and drug addiction are substance use disorders—chronic, but treatable, brain disorders. Though the exact cause of alcoholism and drug addiction is unknown, genetics, environment, and mental illness may play a role.
Living with Alcoholism and Drug Addiction is a straightforward guide that closely examines this disease, its consequences on day-to-day life, and where to go for help. Featuring real-life examples of people struggling with alcoholism and drug addiction, as well as helpful appendixes listing organizations, support groups, online resources, and further reading, this new resource is ideal for teens facing this disorder or for those who have family members or friends coping with it.
Specifications
Index. Appendixes. Glossary. Sidebars. Further reading.
About the Author(s)
Nicholas R. Lessa, M.S.W., C.A.S.A.C., is a managing partner and chief executive officer of Inter-Care, Ltd., a comprehensive alcohol and drug treatment center in New York City. He is the coauthor of Wiley Concise Guides to Mental Health: Substance Use Disorders. Lessa has been a leader, trainer, and innovator in the treatment of substance use disorders for more than 25 years and has developed and implemented training programs covering a wide range of clinical and program management topics. He is currently an adjunct associate professor at New York University’s School of Social Work and maintains a private practice. Lessa holds master's degrees in psychology and social work and is a New York State Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (C.A.S.A.C.).
Sara Dulaney Gilbert, M.A., is the author of more than 28 books in the fields of health, life management, education, child-raising, and personal development, including What Happens in Therapy; Ready, Set, Go; Feeling Good; and You Are What You Eat. Her articles have been published in more than a dozen national magazines including Ms., The New York Times Magazine, Travel, and Scholastic. Gilbert is a graduate of Barnard College and New York University, where she earned her master's degree in education. She lives in Cold Spring, New York.