Understanding SUD: Prevention tips in new STHS TV episode

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Tom Castañeda from South Texas Health Systems discusses an upcoming episode on NBC 23 addressing substance use disorder (SUD).

The episode features a licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Rock N' Roll James, a motivational speaker who has been sober for 18 years after starting substance abuse at the age of 12.

"Unfortunately, Substance Use Disorder is a leading cause of preventable illness and premature death in the United States. Nearly 50 million people, age 12 and older, have a substance use disorder in the United States, with young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 having the highest rate of substance use disorders. So we sit down with a licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor at STHS Behavioral to learn more about the complications associated with substance use disorder, the treatment options available, and some prevention tips that we can share with our family members and loved ones," said Castañeda.

The episode highlights early warning signs of SUD and the importance of community support, proper nutrition, and exercise in recovery.

Viewers are advised to call the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988) for help. The episode airs on Sunday, Sept. 28, at 9 a.m.