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On Their Own but Not Alone: Encouraging a Drug-Free College Experience Pt. 1
Manage episode 407205531 series 3558847
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In this two-part episode, titled "On Their Own But Not Alone: Encouraging a Drug-Free College Experience," begins with the excitement and challenges of sending your kids off to college, a milestone that every parent faces. Dr. Allison M. Smith, Assistant Commissioner for Student Health and Wellness at the Louisiana Board of Regents, contributes valuable insights into the primary factors behind drug misuse among college students.
The conversation continues with Dr. Smith shedding light on the significance of balancing harm reduction vs. prevention. Dr. Calvin Mackie, an accomplished mentor, STEM advocate, university professor and the father of two college age boys, shares his decades of experience and provides valuable insights into the social dynamics of college life.
Natalie, a psychology major in her junior year of college, adds a unique perspective to the episode as she discusses the prevalent substances used by college students, such as alcohol, cannabis, and stimulants. The conversation further explores the challenges faced by students with ADHD and the importance of early diagnoses. Dr. Mackie advises parents to stay connected to their children in college, emphasizing affirmations and effective communication. The episode culminates in practical advice for parents navigating college tours, including the necessity of research, an understanding of annual security reports, and insights into the potential risks associated with Greek organizations. Join us for an informative discussion on ensuring a drug-free college experience for young adults.
Key Takeaways:
Sending kids off to college is an exciting yet challenging milestone for parents, and it's essential to prepare for it.
Family history plays a significant role in drug misuse, making it important to understand these dynamics.
College campuses often involve drink counting, emphasizing the need to understand the social standards and peer pressures.
Dr. Calvin Mackie reveals insights into the socialization dynamics of college life, including several surprising revelations!
Alcohol, cannabis, and stimulants like Adderall are commonly used by college students, and early ADHD diagnoses are crucial.
Effective communication, affirmations, and staying connected with college-bound kids are vital for their well-being.
Parents should research colleges thoroughly, review annual security reports, and be aware of the risks associated with Greek organizations.
Social media hashtags can unveil campus trends related to substance use, and programs promoting sobriety and on-site counseling are essential resources.
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. @jodiesweetin
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. @amymccarthylicsw
Dr. Allison M. Smith serves as the Assistant Commissioner for Student Health and Wellness for the Louisiana Board of Regents. In this role, she facilitates the Louisiana Higher Education Coalition, oversees statewide Core Survey administration, provides professional development training for higher education staff and stakeholders, facilitates campus community partnerships, and renders technical assistance around the issue of substance use prevention and expanding collegiate recovery in Louisiana’s collegiate communities. Additionally, Dr. Smith also focuses on broader campus safety issues such as hazing prevention, increasing equitable access to mental health resources and policy matters related to the implementation of Title IX and Power-Based Violence statutes. Dr. Smith, a native of Baton Rouge, received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Southern University in 2009, a Master of Public Administration from Louisiana State University in May 2011, followed by a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, Research and Counseling with a specialization in Higher Education Administration in 2016.
Dr. Calvin Mackie is an award-winning mentor, inventor, author, former engineering professor, internationally renowned speaker, and successful entrepreneur. In 2013, Dr. Mackie founded STEM NOLA, a non-profit organization created to expose, inspire, and engage communities in the opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). To Date, STEM NOLA has engaged over 125,000 K-12 students in hands-on project-based STEM activities. In 2021, he launched STEM Global Action to advance K-12 Stem education across the U.S. and the world.
Natalie is currently a psychology major at California Institute of Integral Studies, and plans to use her degree to work in psychedelic-assisted therapy. She received her Associate's Degree from Santa Barbara City College, where she now works as a psychology tutor. In her free time, Natalie does Krav Maga, and will be receiving her black belt in January 2024.
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
Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent’s Guide to Substance Use Prevention
Elks Drug Awareness Program Website
Jodie Sweetin’s Links
Amy McCarthy’s Links
Boston Children’s Hospital Instagram
Boston Children’s Hospital Addiction Medicine
Dr. Allison Smith ’s Links
Prevention Profiles: Take Five - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Prevention
Prevention Profiles: Take Five - Dr. Allison Smith
Prevention with Purpose: Considering Culture Throughout the Strategic Prevention Framework
Dr. Calvin Mackie’s Links
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