Dr. Kristen Gilliland: A Mother's Journey from Neuroscience to Advocacy
Heart of the Matter · 2025-10-21 · 39 min
Episode notes
After losing one son to overdose and watching another struggle with lifelong schizophrenia, neuroscientist Dr. Kristen Gilliland reveals what she wishes she'd known about today's ultra-potent marijuana and the developing brain. She breaks down the science of how THC hijacks the adolescent brain's critical development period and why the push for marijuana legalization may be putting more teens at risk. Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode : Marijuana Resource Center Co-Occurring Disorders Resource Center Having Tough Conversations Editor’s Note : The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter” are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction.
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