"As a pediatrician with almost three decades of experience, I feel personal responsibility to alleviate the immediate pain and suffering I see in our college students. I am steadfast in my dedication to restore the trajectory of our adolescent community; to destigmatize mental health, mood and addiction disorders, and normalize the pursuit of rehabilitation, recovery and well-being." - Michael Milobsky, M.D.

As a board certified pediatrician with special training in treating chronic pain, addiction and pediatric mental health and behavior disorders, Doctor Milobsky gained much of his pediatric experience working as a pediatric hospitalist and pediatric emergency physician in multiple hospitals throughout Denver.

Doctor Milobsky and his wife, Ariella, have seven children and two grandchildren. They enjoy the outdoors, their dog, Sadie, and living an active, healthy lifestyle.

In this presentation, attendees will explore the critical link between mental health and academic success, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by college students today. Participants will gain insights into recognizing the signs of mental distress, empowering them to seek help for themselves or peers. The session will introduce practical, evidence based strategies for mental health hygiene tailored for campus life, such as mindfulness techniques, focus on importance of healthy physical routines , especially the central role of sleep, nutrition and exercise, and the impact of substance use on mental health as well as the importance of utilizing campus resources to support mental well-being.
Moreover, the lecture will encourage students to develop personalized self-care routines and Self-awareness about what factors they can control around supporting their own mental health. By the end of the session, students will leave equipped with actionable takeaways, including the establishment of regular mental health check-ins and a balanced weekly schedule that prioritizes both academic responsibilities and personal wellness. This holistic approach aims to cultivate a culture of mental health awareness and resilience, ultimately enabling students to thrive both during their college years and beyond.

Learning Objectives:

1) Understand Mental Health Basics: Gain a foundational understanding of mental health, including common challenges faced by college students and the importance of prioritizing mental well-being.

2. Identify Healthy Coping Strategies: Learn practical coping mechanisms and stress management techniques that can be integrated into daily routines to enhance resilience and emotional well-being.

3. Develop Daily Habits for Mental Wellness: Explore specific daily habits—such as mindfulness, time management, and self-care practices—that contribute to improved mental health and academic performance.

4. Recognize Signs of Mental Health Struggles: Equip yourself with the skills to recognize signs of mental health challenges in yourself and peers, fostering a supportive campus community.

5. Create a Personalized Mental Health Action Plan: Formulate a tailored action plan that incorporates learned strategies and habits, promoting ongoing mental wellness throughout college and beyond.

In this engaging talk, "Mind Matters: The Impact of Cannabis on Brain Development, Mental Health, and Academic Excellence," we will explore the multifaceted effects of cannabis on young adults. As college students navigate a crucial phase of brain development, it's essential to understand how cannabis can influence cognitive functions, emotional well-being, and academic performance. We will delve into the science behind brain maturation during adolescence and early adulthood, highlighting how cannabis use can disrupt normal developmental processes and lead to potential long-term consequences.

Additionally, the talk will address the relationship between cannabis use and mental health, examining its associations with conditions such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments. Students will gain insights into how these mental health challenges can, in turn, affect academic success and motivation. By discussing risk factors and equipping students with the knowledge to make informed choices, this talk aims to empower them to weigh the potential risks and benefits of cannabis use as they strive for personal and academic excellence.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand Brain Development: Explain how cannabis use affects the developing brain, particularly during the critical periods of adolescence and early adulthood.

2. Examine Mental Health Implications: Identify the potential mental health risks associated with cannabis use, including anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments.

3. Assess Academic Performance: Analyze the relationship between cannabis use and academic success, including its impact on motivation, focus, and overall academic achievement.

4. Recognize Risk Factors: Discuss the individual and environmental factors that can influence the effects of cannabis on mental health and brain development.

5. Make Informed Choices: Equip students with the knowledge to make informed decisions about cannabis use, considering its potential long-term effects on their mental health and academic goals.