Ep 79 - Neurodivergence & Substance Use: Breaking the Stigma with Dr Erin Lalor AM

Could there be a hidden link between neurodivergence and substance use?

In this eye-opening episode, Shae Wissell sits down with Dr. Erin Lalor AM, CEO of the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF), for an honest conversation about the often-overlooked intersection of dyslexia, neurodivergence, and alcohol or other drug use.

Dr. Lalor brings decades of leadership in public health, a background in speech pathology, and a deep understanding of harm prevention strategies. Together, she and Shae explore how stigma, shame, late diagnosis, and social exclusion can heighten the risk of substance use among neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with dyslexia, ADHD, or autism.

Shae also opens up about her personal journey, including how undiagnosed dyslexia and mental health struggles intersected with drug use in her early adulthood. This is a powerful and compassionate discussion that tackles the myths and misconceptions surrounding substance use, and highlights the importance of early support, open dialogue, and research-informed approaches.

Key topics covered:

• Why neurodivergent people may be more vulnerable to risky substance use
• The stigma surrounding both drug use and dyslexia
• Early signs of problematic alcohol or drug use and what to look out for
• The role of prevention, education, and community support
• Shae’s personal story of disclosure, trauma, and recovery
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Dr. Lalor also shares:

• Insight into the ADF’s national prevention programs, including Good Sports and Local Drug Action Teams
• The importance of reducing stigma to make it easier for people to seek help
• Resources and support available through the ADF, including Path2Help and the new chatbot “Di”

A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host:

I'm Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexic podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

If you haven’t done so yet, go to your favoured podcast platform and subscribe, rate and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on Dear Dyslexia.