The Science of Addiction

In this Best Of episode, hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy revisit a powerful conversation with Captain Christopher Jones, Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention at SAMHSA. Together, they break down the science of substance use disorders—explaining how addiction affects the brain, what puts kids at greater risk, and how parents can spot early warning signs before it’s too late. This episode equips families with the knowledge and tools to reduce stigma, strengthen mental well-being, and support kids in making healthier choices. Key Moments & Takeaways: -Understanding substance use disorder as a medical condition and its effects on the brain -Key risk factors, including genetics, environment, and mental health conditions -Recognizing early warning signs of substance misuse in youth -Effective prevention strategies, including resources from SAMHSA’s “Talk. They Hear You.” campaign -Supporting children’s mental well-being to reduce risk factors Guest Bio: Christopher M. Jones, Pharm.D., Dr.P.H., M.P.H. (CAPT, U.S. Public Health Service) serves as the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) at SAMHSA. With more than a decade of leadership in substance use, mental health, and injury prevention, CAPT Jones has also served as Director of the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at the CDC. His career has been dedicated to advancing public health and preventing issues like drug overdose, suicide, and adverse childhood experiences. Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate best known for her roles on Full House and Fuller House. Her memoir, unSweetined, chronicles her journey through addiction and recovery, fueling her advocacy for substance use awareness. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodiesweetin/ Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is the Director of Clinical Social Work at Boston Children's Hospital’s Division of Addiction Medicine, specializing in adolescent substance use. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amymccarthylicsw/ Boston Children’s Hospital Addiction Medicine: https://www.childrenshospital.org/departments/addiction-medicine Supporting Organizations: The Elks: With nearly one million members across 2,000 lodges, the Elks are dedicated to youth drug prevention through their Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program. They have donated over $3.6 billion to various causes, including the creation of the first VA hospital for veterans. Elks Drug Awareness Program Website: https://bit.ly/44SunO6 DEA: Established in 1973, DEA enforces U.S. controlled substance laws nationally and internationally, with offices around the globe. www.dea.gov Resources/Links: Digital Wellness Lab https://bit.ly/digitalwellnesslabboston GetSmartAboutDrugs.com www.getsmartaboutdrugs.com Inspired Internet Pledge https://inspiredinternet.org/ DEA's Emoji Guide https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2021-12/Emoji%20Decoded.pdf Hidden in Plain Sight Program https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/Hidden%20in%20Plain%20Sight.pdf DEA on Instagram: www.instagram.com/deahq Elks Kid Zone Website: https://bit.ly/3s79Zdt