Talking to Kids About Marijuana: Insights from Pediatrician Dr. Shannon Murphy
Teaching our kids: hey, okay, I can say no, and not just to say no, but to understand why.
How do you approach the tricky topic of drugs with your kids? In this episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Roneet Lev invites pediatrician Dr. Shannon Murphy to share her expertise on talking to children about marijuana. With the increasing normalization and commercialization of marijuana, especially targeting younger audiences, it's more crucial than ever for parents to step up and have these conversations. Dr.
Murphy, who has a rich background in pediatric care and drug education, stresses that if parents don't address this issue, their children might end up learning from unreliable sources like social media or even drug dealers. She highlights the serious health risks that addiction poses to young brains, including potential decreases in IQ and the risk of developing chronic psychosis with prolonged use.
The episode also delves into the importance of teaching kids to critically evaluate the information they receive about drugs. Dr. Murphy offers practical advice on how parents can have meaningful dialogues with their children, helping them understand not just to say no, but why they should. This episode is packed with valuable insights for any parent looking to navigate this challenging but essential topic.