When does it stop being a party and start becoming a problem? Is there a way to steer clear of addiction?
Every Wednesday, Mike McGowan explores substance use disorders with expert guests.
Episodes
But What if My Kids Won’t Like Me?
Andy Duran talks about parents’ and caregivers’ roles in helping their children avoid the pitfalls of substance use. The conversations and relationships parents have with their children are the primary reason young people stay away from drinking and other drug use. Andy is the chief executive of LEAD, an organization dedicated to the promotion of healthy family relationships, emotional wellness, and the prevention of alcohol, other drug use, and other risky behavior by youth. He can be contacted at [email protected]
Higher Education
Marcy Hufendick, Program Director and Senior Counselor at the University of Wisconsin Parkside, discusses the role universities play in addressing substance use on campus. As universities attempt to keep instruction and campus life as normal as possible during the pandemic, substance use and partying have contributed to a change in how college students experience college life. The UW Parkside Counseling Center can be reached at 262-595-2366.
The Spirit Lives On
Robin Monson-Dupuis talks about surviving her immeasurable pain and her journey to heal and even grow after the traumatic loss of her son to heroin. Robin can be reached at rmmwellness.com, and her book, Spirit Son: A Mother’s Journey to Reconnect with Her Son After His Death From Heroin Overdose, is available on Amazon and from other book retailers.
Silver Linings
Dr. Shilagh Mirgain discusses the importance of gratitude for our physical, mental, and emotional health. Thanksgiving is a perfect time, even in difficult times, to shift our focus from our problems to our gifts. Dr. Mirgain is a Health and Sport Psychologist at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and can be reached at https://www.uwhealth.org/findadoctor/profile/shilagh-a-mirgain-phd/6930
Always Be a Light
Felicia Labatore’s son Clay was a shining light to all who knew him. Then, at age sixteen he took his life. Felicia discusses surviving her incredible pain and her journey to heal and help others address depression and substance use head on. Felicia can be reached through The Clay Davison Legacy Scholarship Fund at http://www.kenoshafoundation.org/scholarship-information/the-clay-davison-legacy/. Felicia’s YouTube video, “Fighting It’s in your DNA,” can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiPebVybkf8&feature=emb_logo
Long Division
Dr. Leah Featherstone talks about how to manage contentious conversations and feelings around a variety of issues, from the Election to the Pandemic to Substance Use. Healthy boundaries and clear communication are keys to positive mental health. Dr. Featherstone can be reached at PSG CIP, 6233 39th Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53142. (262) 654-1004 [email protected]
Freshman Orientation
A panel of college freshman women discuss the impact that alcohol and other substance use had on the first weeks of their unique college experience in the midst of a pandemic . While there aren’t always answers to life’s questions, there are always opportunities for discussions.
What’s a Mother to Do?
Katie Oatsvall discusses her courageous journey to save her son and family from substance use disorder. What she has learned is that she has a journey of her own to travel and that the road is not always smooth. If you or anyone you know needs help with their journey, check out the Loved Ones Group at the Hope Council: https://www.hopecouncil.org/loved-ones-group/
Let’s All Go To The Fair
Debbie Rueber, Health Services Coordinator for Kenosha County, talks about the upcoming Behavioral Health Resource Fair. In a time of increased substance use, depression, and stress, the Kenosha County Division of Aging and Disability Services is offering a Community Resource Fair on October 24th from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Holy Spirit Community Church, 5900 11th Avenue. See the event flyer at http://bit.ly/KCBHfair. If you just need someone to talk, to Text HOME to 741741 to reach a Crisis Counselor.
Represent
Tod Ohnstad and Crystal Miller discuss the state’s role in addressing substance use disorders. Mr. Ohnstad and Ms. Miller are candidates for Wisconsin’s 65th Legislative Assembly District. They discuss the role of the state in prevention, intervention, and treatment.
