Breaking the Substance Abuse Cycle

Cannabis use in children and adolescents is a growing concern as more young people are regularly using the substance and as more states legalize it. What happens when parents, caregivers, healthcare providers or even the teens themselves decide it's time to stop?  In this episode, we will explore important tactics primary care providers can utilize to help families navigate the medical, psychological and social aspects of cannabis use.

For this episode, we are joined by two experts. Sam Wang, MD, specializes in toxicology and emergency medicine at Children's Hospital Colorado. He is also an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Paula Riggs, MD, is a Professor of Psychiatry and is nationally known for her research in adolescents with co-occurring psychiatric and substance use disorders.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• Marijuana use and its potency 
• How to get a child into treatment 
• How primary care providers can build trust with patients who may not realize they have an addiction 

For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.