Michael Cahlin was recently a guest speaker for the ASMA (American Students Medical Association), where he spoke of substance abuse treatment and addiction treatment to the premed chapter in Franz Hall on the UCLA campus. Cahlin is the academic director of Sober College.
Mr. Cahlin's real world experience and compassion for young adults in recovery captured the UCLA audience as he openly discussed the epidemic of alcohol and drug abuse, as well as options for addiction treatment. Mr. Cahlin's speech addressed issues of substance abuse and its impact on medical students and physicians, questioning how the students, as physicians in training, can help the cause in substance abuse treatment.
"Drugs today are so much more potent than they were five or ten years ago. It is vital at this time that the medical and addiction treatment communities become better allies, so that we may fight this rising epidemic." Mr. Cahlin spoke with a sense of urgency and truth that not only provoked the audience but motivated them to get on board and make a difference.
Immediately following the 60 min speech, Mr. Cahlin opened the floor for students to make comments or ask questions. The students responded, eager to hear about Michael's opinion on various issues, including Albuterol, Methadone and the legalization of Marijuana.
"There is a fine line between helping and abusing certain drugs," answered Mr. Cahlin, "as there are many that need it." Mr. Cahlin differentiated between the needing and abusing of drugs and the importance of knowing when that fine line has been crossed.
"Pot is considered a casual, non-addictive drug," began one student, "but some of my friends seem addicted and I need advice on how I can help them." Some students even got personal and asked for addiction treatment advice in regards to friends, co-workers and family members who may require substance abuse treatment.
"Look deeper than the general symptoms or you might miss a chemical dependency issue. That could mean life or death," urged Mr. Cahlin. "Kids will do anything to get you to go to that script pad and write them a prescription, use your sense and dig deeper. If you are a good doctor you will want to get better at this."
About Sober College
Sober College, headquartered in Southern California, is a small private institution providing alcohol and drug treatment environments for young adults ages 17 to 26. The Sober College builds core competencies in life skills, employment, academics, emotional well-being and fitness. The institution also advises on substance abuse treatment options and disseminates information on addiction treatment.
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