In this episode of the Sanity Podcast, host Dr. Jason Duncan reconnects with Dr. Craig Henderson to discuss family-based treatment solutions for adolescent substance abuse and other related mental health disorders. Dr. Henderson elaborates on the increasing prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders among teenagers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and shares insights into the importance of acknowledging and tackling substance abuse issues in this age group. The discussion also explores the influence of family dynamics on the mental health and resilience of adolescents, the challenges posed by societal pressures, and the scope for engaging broader family networks or 'families of choice' in therapeutic healing processes. The podcast episode wraps up with Dr. Henderson highlighting various resources for support and recovery, including the 'Consortium on Addiction Recovery Support' (COARS), the 'Partnership to End Addiction' and others, available to families dealing with substance abuse.

00:22 Introduction and Guest Background

00:59 The Current State of Adolescent Substance Abuse

01:27 Impact of COVID-19 on Adolescent Mental Health

13:42 The Role of Family in Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment

17:47 Understanding Family-Based Therapies

23:39 The Influence of Peer Groups and Social Factors

30:29 The Role of Parents in Emerging Adulthood

34:24 Parenting Challenges and Joys

35:37 Balancing Parenting and Caregiving for Aging Parents

36:18 Learning to Parent at Different Life Stages

37:03 Two Rules for Parenting

37:22 The Importance of Family in Therapy

37:43 The Role of Family in Therapy

39:11 Challenges of Non-traditional Family Structures in Therapy

39:42 Inclusion of Chosen Family in Therapy

41:37 The Role of Therapists in Family Therapy

43:50 Core Elements of Effective Family Therapy

49:15 The Importance of Fidelity in Therapy

49:16 The Role of Research in Improving Family Therapy

51:45 The Importance of Self-check in Therapy

59:26 Addressing Substance Use and Mental Health Issues in Teens

59:52 National Initiatives to Address Substance Use

01:07:38 Final Thoughts: The Power of Kindness and Support