Adolescent Substance Use and Mental Health

Thursday, May 28, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM

Understanding Teens, Mental Health, and Substance Use: What Families Need to Know

Teen brains are still developing, which can make emotions feel intense and increase vulnerability to both mental health challenges and substance use. In this health talk, experts explain how adolescent brain development influences behavior, why substance use is often a signal of underlying stress, anxiety, or depression, and which factors may increase risk.

Join experts, Raúl Martinez-McFaline, MD, PhD, Sybil Marsh, MD, Stacy Ryan-Pettes, PhD and Halle Tansing, MSW, LSW to learn how to tell the difference between experimentation and coping, recognize early warning signs, and support teens through prevention and early intervention.

The session will also cover practical parent strategies and how to access behavioral health resources – with guidance on what to expect and how care teams work together. Presentation will include dedicated Q&A with the presenters.

The event is free but registration is required.