The current COVID-19 pandemic serves as a case example that highlights the fundamental need to more aggressively use the Shared Risk and Protective Factors (SRPF) Framework to address Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), suicide, and opioid misuse. This episode explains what the SRPF framework is, and how states and territories can collaborate with a broader range of partners to implement research-based programs, policies, practices, and strategies that will improve the existing fractured and unstable systems. This framework ultimately works to nurture the safe and stable communities that youth and families need to thrive.

During this episode, two public health practitioners join us to discuss their unique perspectives on the SRPF Framework through a state/federal government and academic lens. Our guests explain how leveraging the SRPF Framework ultimately achieves better outcomes more efficiently—and how the pandemic underscores the urgency of using more upstream approaches.

Guests:

• Jewel Mullen, MD, MPH, Associate Dean for Health Equity at The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, former Connecticut state health official
• Sarah Bacon, PhD, Senior Advisor on Adverse Childhood Experiences, Office of Strategy and Innovation (OSI), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

 Resources:

• Preventing Multiple Forms of Violence: A Strategic Vision for Connecting the Dots (CDC)
• Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Leveraging the Best Available Evidence (CDC)