Dr. Sid Puri on Preventing Youth Substance Use: Practical Insights from LA County
Prevention begins at birth or before. It's the end of casual drug use.
Picture this: you're a parent, teacher, or someone who cares deeply about the younger generation. You're worried about the rising tide of substance use among youth. Enter Dr. Sid Puri, a leading voice in addiction prevention from Los Angeles County. In this episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', hosted by Dr. Roneet Lev, Dr. Puri shares his wealth of knowledge on how to steer young people away from the dangerous path of substance use disorder. Dr.
Puri, who serves as the Associate Medical Director of Prevention at the LA County Department Division of Substance Abuse Prevention and Control, believes that prevention should start as early as birth. He emphasizes the critical role that parents and caregivers play in modeling healthy behaviors and setting positive examples. Dr. Puri's approach is grounded in practical advice: effective communication and short, impactful messages that resonate on social media can make a significant difference.
But it’s not just about talking; it’s about listening and engaging with youth in meaningful ways. Dr. Puri discusses the ongoing debates around cannabis use and its potential impact on mental health, underscoring the importance of safe and effective treatment options for those struggling with substance use disorders. Throughout the episode, Dr. Puri advocates for collaboration with public health officials to tackle the substance use epidemic head-on.
His insights are not just theoretical but come from years of hands-on experience in one of the nation's largest public health systems. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone invested in the well-being of young people, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable steps to help prevent substance use disorders. Tune in to hear Dr. Puri’s expert advice and learn how you can contribute to a healthier future for our youth.