Dr. Roneet Lev
Dr. Roneet Lev
Episode #171 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with Dr. Kristen Gilliland and Neuroplasticity
Episode #171 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with Dr. Kristen Gilliland and Neuroplasticity
Episode #171 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with Dr. Kristen Gilliland and Neuroplasticity
Monday 1st April 2024
Explore neuroplasticity and substance use with Dr. Kristen Gilliland. Learn how marijuana affects brain development in this enlightening episode.
59 minutes
Informative
Compassionate
Hopeful
Educational
Supportive
About this podcast
Author:
Dr. Roneet Lev
Overview:
Categories:
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Navigating Alcohol Dependency
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Body & Mind
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Get the buttons here!Neuroplasticity and Substance Use: A Deep Dive with Dr. Kristen Gilliland
Episode Overview
- Neuroplasticity allows the brain to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections.
- Marijuana can cause synaptic reprogramming, leading to long-term changes in brain function.
- Adolescence is a critical period for brain development, making healthy choices essential.
- High-potency marijuana products pose significant risks and require better regulation.
- Education on substance use and brain development is crucial for informed decision-making.
Neurons that fire together, wire together
In this engaging episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Roneet Lev welcomes Dr. Kristen Gilliland to discuss the fascinating world of neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. Dr. Gilliland, a seasoned scientist and mother, shares her personal journey, including her son's struggle with cannabis use disorder and schizophrenia.
Her story is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, offering a unique perspective on how substance use can affect the developing brain. Dr. Gilliland explains how marijuana can lead to synaptic reprogramming, potentially causing long-term changes in brain function. She highlights the importance of understanding the brain's plasticity, especially during adolescence when the brain is still developing. The conversation dives deep into how the brain grows through myelination and synaptic pruning, making it crucial for young people to make healthy choices.
One of the standout moments is when Dr. Gilliland discusses her TEDx talk, 'Rewiring Revolution: Neuroplasticity’s Impact on Wellbeing', and her award-winning documentary, 'Speaking Through Me'. She provides insights into how stress and substances like marijuana and fentanyl can impact brain development. Her candid reflections on her son's experiences offer valuable lessons for parents and educators alike. Dr. Lev and Dr. Gilliland also touch on the societal implications of high-potency marijuana products and the need for better regulation and education.
They stress the importance of teaching kids about the risks associated with substance use and how to make informed decisions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between substance use and brain development. It's packed with scientific insights, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, making it both informative and deeply moving. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that could change how you think about drugs and addiction.