Understanding the Science of Addiction 

The “Just Say Know” program, developed by the MUSC Youth Collaborative, is a neuroscience-focused substance use prevention program designed to empower youth with the scientific knowledge needed to make informed decisions about substance use. The program incorporates opioid-specific content to address the ongoing opioid epidemic, which has significantly affected youth both in South Carolina and nationwide. Following the presentation, students examine a real human brain to help them see it as a physical organ.

• The presentation is designed to last 1 hour (45 minutes of content, 15 minutes for questions and discussion), but can be adjusted to meet time constraints.

• Just Say Know can be presented to audiences of any size. It is suitable for classrooms, lecture halls, or other educational spaces equipped for presentations. 

Topics Discussed

• Substance Use
  • Just Say Know provides education on the risks of various substances, including alcohol, cannabis, nicotine, and opioids such as fentanyl.
• The Developing Brain
  • Neuroscience-based insights into how the adolescent brain is developing and how substance use affects that development.
• Empowerment
  • Strategies on how to say no and advice for making informed, healthy decisions about substance use.

Why Choose Just Say Know

By participating in the Just Say Know program, schools can:

• Positively influence school-wide awareness and behaviors regarding substance use.
• Address a critical public health issue impacting youth in the Charleston community. 
• Complement science curriculum with neuroscientific research findings on brain development.

Schedule a Presentation

To schedule a “Just Say Know: Understanding the Science of Addiction” presentation, contact:

Emma Gaskins

Email: youthoutreach@musc.edu, Phone: ‪(843) 310-8668‬

94% of past participants reported learning valuable information about substance use and the brain.