Senator Elaine Phillips Participates In Community Discussion On Addiction

Senator Elaine Phillips recently participated in a “Devices or Vices: Connections Between Digital Obsessions and Substance Addiction” discussion at the Manhasset Public Library.

The discussion, hosted by the Rotary Club of Manhasset and the Manhasset Coalition Against Substance Abuse, included presenters Anthony Rizzuto, Executive Director of Families in Support of Treatment; Lisa Ganz, Clinical Director of Long Island Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence; and Stephen L. Dewey, Director of Laboratory for Behavioral and Molecular Neuroimaging.

“Addiction comes in many different forms and it is important for caregivers to detect signs of addiction in children early on,” Senator Elaine Phillips said. “With Long Island in the middle of a heroin and opioid epidemic, we must remember that children can develop addictive tendencies with usage of cell phones and social media. It is vital for us to continue advancing the conversation and prevention methods to ensure our children lead addiction-free lives.”

The discussion looked at the parallels between a mind that is plagued with addiction and one that is not, and how certain addictions can lead to others.

“It is important for parents to keep an open dialogue with children about using technology and social media safely,” Senator Phillips said. “Thank you to the Rotary Club of Manhasset and CASA for hosting this informative discussion, and to the presenters for bringing thought-provoking ideas to the table.”