Teen Drug Use, Intervention, Reduction, and Prevention with John Puls, LCSW, MCAP

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In this episode, Bryce Hamilton, LSCSW and John Puls, LCSW, MCAP discuss productive ways to talk to kids about drug usage. This includes being truthful, honest, and open to discussing what different drugs are, how they affect the brain, and why drug use can become a bigger problem. Talking to kids about the risks, answering questions, and including harm reduction in the conversation are all important in not only being open with kids about drugs but also allowing them to feel safe when learning about prevention and reduction. John also talks about how different drugs have changed over the decades and what some of us once knew has drastically changed and can be hard to keep up with when talking to kids. It’s important to have the facts when planning how to talk to kids about the effects of drugs, especially on young brains. And maybe most important to remember, medical or “legal” does not always equate to safety. 

The conversation also leads to understanding why kids may choose to try drugs for the first time and how parents can approach the conversation. Being aware of what is going on in your kid’s life from academic and sports pressures to peer pressure, trauma, or trying to help calm their nervous system, kids are facing many stressors that could lead to trying different substances for the first time. Prevention starts with looking deeper into the issues kids are dealing with and finding the proper support to help them before they decide to turn to substances. Early intervention is key!

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John Puls, LCSW, MCAP is a licensed clinical social worker, addiction professional, educator, consultant, and expert witness specializing in severe mental illness, substance use disorders, crisis intervention, and involuntary commitment law. He is the Co/Founder of Full Life Comprehensive Care, where he works with individuals and families navigating complex behavioral health challenges, including psychosis, co-occurring disorders, and high-risk clinical situations.

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