Join Ed McDonough and Lisa Vasquez as they discuss prevention strategies for substance misuse, including family engagement, language use, and social media's impact.
Preventing Substance Misuse: Insights from Ed McDonough and Lisa Vasquez
I like the prevention side of it because we're just telling the kids that this behavior is not okay. And if you see this behavior or you feel this way, like, there's an outlet for it. It doesn't have to be.
Ever thought about how crucial prevention is in tackling substance misuse? Ed McDonough, the CEO of GateHouse Treatment, teams up with Lisa Vasquez from Nashua's Department of Public Health to shed light on this very topic. They dive into why using the right language matters when talking about addiction and how simple steps like locking up medications can make a big difference. But it's not just about locking things away – it's about balance and not going overboard.
Family engagement comes up as a key factor too. Supporting parents of at-risk youth and having open, two-way conversations with kids can help break the cycle of addiction. Ed and Lisa also touch on the role of social media and the importance of teaching kids essential life skills early on. This episode is packed with practical advice and real talk about preventing substance misuse. Perfect for anyone looking to make a positive impact in their community.