Adapting to Marijuana Legalization: Insights from Shannon Spurlock
As policies change and situations change, I use the opioid epidemic as the example as well. I think it may evolve differently, but that's what I've seen successfully so far.
Marijuana legalization is sweeping across many states, leaving communities and professionals in the field of addiction recovery grappling with new challenges. In this thought-provoking episode of 'Scope of Practice', Shannon Spurlock, a well-known preventionist and trainer from Rhode Island, shares her expertise on how the landscape has shifted and what needs to change in response. Shannon tackles the pressing public health issues tied to increased marijuana access, such as its impact on cognitive and motor skills.
She stresses the importance of delivering honest and effective prevention messaging that respects individual rights while safeguarding those who are most vulnerable. The conversation doesn't shy away from the tough questions, including how legalization might affect the black market and what opportunities arise for researching adverse effects. Shannon's insights are not just informative but also a call-to-action for preventionists to stay adaptable and open-minded as they navigate these uncharted waters.
Whether you're directly involved in addiction recovery or simply interested in the broader implications of marijuana legalization, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice.