Unspoken Legacy: Addressing the Impact of Trauma and Addiction within the Family

In this compassionate self-help book, Black (It Will Never Happen to Me), a clinical psychologist, demystifies trauma and addiction with sensitivity and clarity, and offers hope for recovery to those embroiled in them. Using case studies and references to research, she clarifies how trauma and addiction often overlap and impact entire families over generations. “Addiction encourages, spreads, and deepens trauma,” she says, and “trauma can make the brain more vulnerable to addiction.” Adopting a familiar, intimate tone, she delves into the difficulties that people with addictions and those around them commonly experience. She gives real-life examples, telling readers, “I want you to begin to recognize the signs and symptoms.” She emphasizes that “healing is possible” and it begins “where you are.” The latter section of the book describes a six-layer process of healing, beginning with grounding exercises, because “in order to heal, you first need some inner stability.” The book also includes exercises for self-awareness, types of therapies available, and resources to contact. Black’s work serves as a cogent, encouraging, and honest explanation of what trauma and addiction look like and how to address them, with the hope that readers who can recognize their own experiences can begin the process of healing. (Jan.)

Correction: An earlier version of this review misidentified the author as a social worker.