Eichin Chang-Lim is the author of the new book Talking About Adolescence: Supercharge Your Body and Brain Power. Her other books include Talking About Adolescence: Anxiety, Depression, and Adolescent Mental Health. Also an optometrist, she lives in Orange County, California.
Q: What inspired you to write Talking About Adolescence: Supercharge Your Body and Brain Power?
A: The Talking About Adolescence series was born from my experiences as a healthcare provider and parent, witnessing both the heartbreaking struggles and inspiring resilience of young people. Incidents of violence and suicide among adolescents underscored the urgent need for accessible resources and positive guidance during this life stage.
This series aims to empower teens and young adults with scientifically backed information about the significant changes in their bodies and brains. By understanding these developments, adolescents can make informed decisions that positively impact their future.
My goal is to provide them with a map and flashlight to navigate the dense fog of adolescence. I hope by providing tools to overcome challenges and avoid harmful traps, teens can unlock their full potential, make better choices and feel supported in the journey into adulthood.
Q: How do you see the Talking About Adolescence books working together?
A: The Talking About Adolescence series consists of three volumes, each designed to be standalone while complementing others. Together, they provide a holistic approach to navigating adolescence. The content of each book offers young people a cohesive and comprehensive toolkit for their development.
The first book explores major mental disorders in adolescence and offers strategies to stay mentally healthy amid these challenges. It provides practical advice and support for navigating the emotional journey of the teenage years, laying the foundation for understanding the psychological component of adolescence.
The second book delves into adolescent development, helping young people understand the science behind their body and brain's rapid growth. It gives them the knowledge and context they need to maximize their potential and overcome childhood experiences that may impede growth. The book also offers practical tools to optimize physical and mental well-being, helping to ensure they achieve their potential.
Together, these books provide adolescents with a comprehensive, 360-degree view of their development. By interweaving important information about both mental and physical health — I hope young people will be better equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of adolescence.
Q: As someone who writes fiction and nonfiction, do you have a preference?
A: I enjoy writing both fiction and nonfiction, finding unique challenges in each. My goal is always to explore human relationships and celebrate resilience.
I blend personal experiences with research and imagination for fiction, especially my young adult romances. These stories let me create aspirational tales that resonate with readers’ own dreams and struggles.
Nonfiction requires a different approach. My educational works are research-heavy, while memoirs mix personal stories with broader insights.
Whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, I aim to inspire readers and show the power of the human spirit. I want my work to entertain and enthrall people to see the world differently.
I don’t prefer one genre over the other. Both allow me to tell stories of human resilience and struggle — and my hope is that these stories help my readers, and maybe even make the world a bit better.
Q: What do you hope adolescents take away from this new book?
A: Simply: I want to provide young people with the knowledge and practical information they need to understand themselves better. My hope is that by reading the Talking About Adolescence series, they will be better able to make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls and break free from societal pressures.
The book offers insights into adolescent body and brain development, empowering teens with scientific information to help build emotional and mental resilience.
The series also serves as both a resource and a companion, reminding readers they’re not alone in their journey. Practical tools and exercises encourage readers to apply what they've learned to their daily lives. The ultimate goal is to help young readers navigate adolescence with confidence, knowledge and hope, allowing them to thrive during this transformative period.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: To know more about me, please check out https://www.eichinchanglim.com/
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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