Community Power: Preventing Addiction with Sue Thau
Episode Overview
Communities play a vital role in preventing addiction through comprehensive strategies. The Farm Bill's hemp definition led to unregulated products like Delta-8. Federal programs like Drug-Free Communities Act support prevention efforts. Sue Thau advocates for closing legislative loopholes affecting public health. Training youth to engage in substance abuse prevention is crucial.
"The only 100% safe and effective treatment is prevention".
In this episode of High Truths on Drugs and Addiction, Dr. Roneet Lev welcomes Sue Thau, a seasoned public policy consultant with a knack for tackling complex legislative issues. Sue is known for her work with CADCA, the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, where she has been instrumental in pushing for policy changes that benefit community health. Together, they unravel the intricacies of the Farm Bill and its impact on addiction prevention.
You'll hear about how hemp's legal status opened the floodgates to a range of untested products like Delta-8 and Delta-10, turning American children into unwitting test subjects. Sue's background is as diverse as a well-stocked toolbox. With roots in developmental psychology and city planning, she found herself in Washington, D.C., advocating for drug prevention policies. Her insights on how communities can lead the charge in preventing addiction are both eye-opening and actionable. Dr.
Lev and Sue discuss the importance of comprehensive strategies that include raising awareness and training community members to tackle substance abuse. The episode dives into the role of federal programs like the Drug-Free Communities Act, highlighting how these initiatives provide essential funding for coalitions across America. Sue's passion for prevention shines through as she talks about her journey from being a budget examiner at the White House to becoming a key player in CADCA.
If you're curious about how local efforts can make a big difference in combating addiction, this episode offers plenty of food for thought. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or community leader, you'll find valuable takeaways on how to create safer environments for future generations. So why not lend an ear and explore how you can be part of the solution?