Outreach and Advocacy Program

Speaking Through Me is an initiative by the Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery at Vanderbilt University, dedicated to educating adolescents and their parents about the developing adolescent brain, the neurobiology of addiction, and promoting self-compassion and mindfulness as preventive measures against substance use and mental health issues.

Background and Mission

The initiative was founded by Dr. Kristen Gilliland, who channeled her personal tragedy of losing her 22-year-old son, Anders, to an accidental drug overdose, into a mission to prevent similar losses in other families. Anders' struggles with schizophrenia and substance use inspired the creation of this project to raise awareness and educate others.

Documentary Film

Central to the initiative is the educational short film, Speaking Through Me, which aims to empower teens and young adults with knowledge about their developing brains. The documentary shares the stories of young individuals who have faced challenges such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and drug addiction. It also provides insights into coping strategies and the importance of mental well-being. The film is available for group screenings upon request.

Watch the trailer of the Speaking Through Me documentary below:

Educational Programs

The Speaking Through Me initiative offers interactive and science-based educational programs designed for middle and high school students, parents, and educators. These programs use real-life stories, neuroscience insights, and mindfulness strategies to help young people understand their brains and make informed decisions about mental health and substance use.

These programs cover topics including:

- The adolescent brain undergoes significant changes, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and reasoning.
- Students learn how their brains are still developing and why this makes them more vulnerable to impulsive behavior and risk-taking.
- The session explains the role of neurotransmitters such as dopamine in shaping behavior and how habits formed in adolescence can have long-term effects.
- This program explores the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to change and adapt based on experiences.
- Students engage in exercises that demonstrate how learning, repetition, and mindfulness can strengthen positive neural pathways.
- The session emphasizes the importance of developing good habits, avoiding harmful substances, and engaging in activities that promote cognitive growth, such as reading, problem-solving, and creative pursuits.
- Stress and anxiety are normal parts of life, but chronic stress can negatively impact brain function.
- This session teaches students about the stress response system (fight, flight, or freeze) and how excessive stress can impair learning, memory, and emotional regulation.
- Students are introduced to mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and cognitive strategies to help manage stress effectively.

- The program provides factual, science-based information on how substances like marijuana, opioids, and alcohol impact brain function.
- It discusses the risks of addiction, the potential for long-term brain damage, and the dangers of experimenting with synthetic drugs that are often more potent and unpredictable.
- Students hear personal stories from young people who have struggled with substance use, reinforcing the real-life consequences of addiction.
- Students learn practical mindfulness techniques to help regulate emotions, improve focus, and reduce anxiety.
- The session includes guided exercises such as deep breathing, body scans, visualization, and meditation to help students develop self-awareness and emotional resilience.
- The importance of daily habits like proper sleep, physical activity, and a healthy diet in maintaining mental well-being is also discussed.
- Many adolescents struggle with negative self-talk, perfectionism, and low self-esteem. This program helps them recognize and challenge harmful thought patterns.
- Students learn how to reframe negative experiences, develop a growth mindset, and practice self-compassion as a tool for mental health.
- Role-playing exercises and journaling activities help reinforce positive self-narratives and personal resilience.

Dr. Kristen Gilliland, Director of Outreach and Advocacy Programs at the Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, has an active schedule of events aimed at educating communities on adolescent brain development, mental health, and substance use prevention. Her upcoming engagements include presentations at schools, participation in national symposiums, and involvement in community seminars.

For the most current information on Dr. Gilliland's upcoming events, please visit the Speaking Through Me events page.

Events Calendar