Youth Health Crisis: Dr. John Lucas on Fentanyl, Marijuana & School Safety
Release Date: 07/28/2025
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info_outlineYouth Health Crisis: Dr. John Lucas on Fentanyl, Marijuana & School Safety
Join host Bridget Johnson with Dr. John Lucas, licensed family physician and veteran educator, for an essential discussion on the critical health challenges facing today's students. Dr. Lucas brings a unique dual perspective to youth health challenges - he's both a licensed family physician and an experienced educator with over 15 years in the classroom, graduating from Georgetown University Medical School and completing his family medicine residency at Fairfax Family Practice in Virginia.
This episode addresses the most pressing health concerns in schools today, from the fentanyl crisis to emerging nicotine products, providing evidence-based strategies for parents, educators, and students. Dr. Lucas shares practical approaches for discussing sensitive health topics and offers concrete prevention strategies that work.
In this episode, you'll learn:
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How to implement Narcan programs and address fentanyl risks in schools
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The hidden dangers of today's high-potency marijuana on student learning
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Effective strategies for preventing early substance use and addiction
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How to navigate politically sensitive health conversations professionally
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Warning signs and risks of emerging nicotine products targeting youth
Featured Guest: Dr. John Lucas combines medical expertise as a licensed family physician with hands-on educational experience working with students who have language-based learning differences. He has served as dean of students at the Silver Spring campus of the Siena School and currently contracts with schools nationwide to provide health education on substance use, sexual health, and mental wellness. A Maryland resident for nearly 30 years with four children, he brings both professional expertise and personal insight into the challenges facing today's young people.
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The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.