In a world where early intervention can make all the difference, Episode 6 of our series, "No Time to Waste: Getting Help for Your Child's Drug Use," delves into the vital realm of preventing and addressing adolescent drug misuse. From recognizing the signs of drug misuse to navigating the myriad of resources available, this episode embarks on a journey of knowledge and compassion, equipping you with essential insights for both early detection and intervention.

Terrence Spain introduces the groundbreaking 988 helpline, a nationwide lifeline for those grappling with drug misuse or mental health concerns. Robert Vincent adds to the discourse, guiding listeners to a wealth of online support platforms that complement the 988 helpline. Strategies for overcoming stigma take center stage as Terrence lends his voice to the importance of dispelling myths and ensuring every child receives appropriate assistance. The journey of recovery is illuminated through poignant narratives, reinforcing the belief that recovery is not only possible but within reach for most.

Key Takeaways:

• Early intervention plays a crucial role in preventing adolescent drug misuse and its potential long-term effects.

• The 988 helpline provides a nationwide resource for parents and guardians seeking assistance for drug misuse or mental health concerns.

• Overcoming stigma is essential for ensuring every child receives the appropriate support and guidance they need.

• Creating a safe and nonjudgmental space is vital when approaching conversations about drug use with your child.

• Exploring diverse therapeutic approaches and finding the right fit for your child can be instrumental in their journey toward recovery.

Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate, best known for her role as Stephanie Tanner on the iconic sitcom "Full House" and its sequel "Fuller House". In 2009 she penned her memoir, "unSweetined", which chronicles her journey through addiction and into recovery. With her frank and open approach, Jodie has emerged as a compelling speaker and advocate who now seeks to use her platform and experiences to educate others and reduce the stigma associated with addiction and recovery.

Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is a Director of Clinical Social Work at Boston Children's Hospital's Division of Addiction Medicine. She has been working in the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program since 2019

Terrence Spain, MPH is the Senior Manager for Adolescent Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Charleston Southern University and his master's in public administration, with an emphasis in Public Policy, from the University of Oklahoma. Prior to working for ODMHSAS he worked for over 11 years in the field of juvenile justice focusing on the area of disproportionate minority contact. Terrence began working for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in 2013 as the Alcohol Program Manager for the Prevention division. Mr. Spain spent over 7 years working in the prevention division overseeing planning, implementing, and evaluating environmental prevention services statewide for all major substance use issues. Currently, Mr. Spain works to improve access and treatment for all Oklahoma youth and families by working to integrate prevention, treatment, and recovery in every aspect of service delivery. He lives in Chickasha, Oklahoma with his wife of 15 years and two children.

Rob Vincent serves as the Associate Administrator for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Division of Systems Development. Prior to coming to SAMHSA Rob served as the Administrator for True North-Student Assistance & Treatment Services at the Educational Service District 113's Department of Educational Support in Olympia, Washington. He was responsible for the development, implementation, and management of a (45) forty-five school district consortium addressing School Safety and Substance Abuse Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment programs within the five-county region.

Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!

DEA: The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA enforces controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective antidrug organization in the world, with 241 domestic locations in 23 field divisions and 93 international field divisions in 69 countries.

Resources/Links

SAMHSA | Help and Treatment

Get Smart About Drugs

Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention

One Pill Could Kill

DEA Website

DEA on Instagram

DEA on Twitter

DEA on Facebook

DEA YouTube Channel

Elks Kid Zone Website

Elks Drug Awareness Program Website

Elks DAP on Twitter

Elks DAP on Facebook

Elks DAP on YouTube

Jodie Sweetin's Links

Jodie's Instagram

Jodie's TikTok

Amy McCarthy's Links

Amy's Instagram

Boston Children's Hospital Instagram

Boston Children's Hospital Addiction Medicine

Terrence's Links

ODMHSAS Instagram

Robert Vincent's Links

SAMHSA: "Talk. They Hear You" Campaign