Addiction in Young Adulthood

Welcome!

This site explores addiction and recovery in young adulthood, spanning ages 18 to 40 based on Hutchinson’s (2018) Dimensions of Human Behavior: The Changing Life Course. This period is critical for establishing intimate relationships, independence and careers. The focus is on trauma-informed, harm reduction-centered approaches. Here, you will find educational resources and reflections on the intersection of neurobiology, trauma, and healing. Whether you are a social work student, a professional, or someone seeking support, I invite you to explore and engage with these tools for recovery.

Young Adulthood and Addiction: A 2025 Spotlight by Essivi Collins

CUNY Hunter College Silberman School of Social Work, Human Behavior in the Social Environment, Dr. Ortega-Williams, Spring Semester

This project analyzes how the developmental tasks of young adulthood intersect with substance use and addictive behaviors, using as a basis Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory. Special attention is given to changes in addiction patterns related to the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. Through research and theory application, I aim to highlight key challenges and offer ideas for supporting young adults affected by addiction.

Erikson on Young Adulthood:

Addiction in Young Adulthood has Effects that are Individual and Societal:

About the Author:

Essivi Collins

My name is Essivi Collins, and I am a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) student at Hunter College, currently focusing on care coordination, harm reduction, and the intersection of trauma and addiction. I bring to this work both personal experience and professional dedication, having previously completed a Human Services degree at BMCC and earning certifications in alcoholism and substance abuse counseling (CASAC-T) and recovery peer advocacy. I currently work as an addiction counselor at the nonprofit Project Renewal, where I support adults facing homelessness, mental health challenges, and substance use.

  • Born in Togo, West Africa, I grew up in multiple locations on this Earth of ours, including Ithaca and NYC in NY, France, Ghana, and Botswana. I am proud of my LGBTQ+ identity, carrying a diverse cultural and lived experience that shapes my approach to social justice, healing, and care. My passion for social work grew out of my own journey through addiction and mental health issues through adolescence and culminating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • In this process, I deepened my commitment to trauma-informed practices. I am especially interested in the neurobiology of addiction, behavioral health, and alternative methods of harm reduction for healing, such as land-based healing for urban youth, adults, and families. I am eager to be involved in such opportunities, network, and expand my social work expertise, you can reach me here:

[email protected] [email protected]

  • In addition to my academic work, I am building a multimedia education platform called IVI Healing, where I create trauma-informed, grounding-based digital content to support individuals in recovery and build public understanding of harm reduction. My work integrates theory, digital storytelling, and advocacy to support individuals and communities on their path toward wellness. Please find my YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@IVIHealing-ivi

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