23 views since Nov 26, 2023

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