Not Just a Game: Student Athletes & Opioids Awkward Conversations

Welcome to Part 2 of our two-part special, "Not Just a Game: Student Athletes & Opioids." As fall sports begin, this episode takes a comprehensive look at the alarming issue of opioid misuse among student athletes.
Our expert guest, Dr. Averill Sutchar, Founder of Physio Project HQ, brings his expertise in sports injuries and physical therapy to the discussion. We explore the reasons behind opioid misuse, particularly in the context of managing pain and injuries among young athletes.
Join co-hosts Jodie Sweetin and Amy McCarthy, along with celebrity guest Ryan Grant and Taylor Hooton Foundation Founder, Donald Hooton Jr, as we discuss the potential risks and long-term health effects associated with steroid and opioid use. 
Dr. Sutchar also sheds light on how parents and mentors can recognize signs of misuse and offers practical advice to protect student athletes' health and well-being.
As a critical conversation for parents of student athletes, this episode aims to equip caregivers with the knowledge and tools to ensure the safety and success of young athletes.
Key takeaways: 
Opioid misuse is a critical issue among student athletes, particularly when managing pain and injuries.
Dr. Averill Sutchar emphasizes the need to be aware of the potential risks and long-term health effects associated with opioid use.
Parents and mentors play a crucial role in recognizing signs of misuse and protecting the health and well-being of student athletes.
Non-opioid alternatives for pain management should be considered and explored whenever possible.
Early education and awareness about the risks of opioid misuse are essential for student athletes and their support systems.
Taking pain seriously and being intentional about how pain is treated can prevent opioid misuse.
Opioids can have significant effects on the body, and it doesn't take long for someone to become addicted.
Seeking professional guidance and talking to the child's healthcare providers are essential steps in addressing opioid-related concerns.
Student athletes should be empowered to prioritize their long-term well-being over short-term solutions.
Parents, coaches, and mentors should foster an environment that prioritizes the health and safety of student athletes over winning at all costs.
BIOS: Donald Hooton Jr. is one the most sought after speakers in North America on the subject of Appearance and Performance Enhancing Substances use by youth. Donald serves as President for the Taylor Hooton Foundation which he helped his parents found in 2004, the year following the loss of his younger brother Taylor. Taylor died after using anabolic steroids.
@thethf
Dr. Averill is the Founder of Physio Project HQ. Averill received his bachelors in Psychology from the University of San Diego in 2008 where he played linebacker for Head Coach Jim Harbaugh. He went on to complete his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Creighton University. Averill has a special interest in the treatment of sports injuries, various orthopedic conditions, and spinal conditions. His emphasis is a manual treatment approach, which includes one on one treatment while prescribing therapeutic exercises progressively over the course of his treatment. @physioprojecthq
Ryan Grant is a former American football running back in the National Football League (NFL) known for his impressive career with the Green Bay Packers. He was a part of the Packers' Super Bowl XLV championship team in 2010. Ryan Grant's journey from his early years in New York and New Jersey to his success in the NFL remains a testament to his determination and skill on the field. @ryan.grant
Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Dru