The Biology of Substance Use Disorders: Brains, Behaviors, and Best Practices.

Substance use disorders, aka addictions, are treatable chronic diseases of the brain.  Understanding the chemical changes that underly behaviors observed in people who are actively using drugs and alcohol can lead to more effective treatment options.  In this presentation we will explore why dopamine changes impact behavior and how addiction treatment informed by this knowledge can lead to improved rates of recovery.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Describe 3 ways in which the chronic diseases of addiction and diabetes are similar.
2. Explain 2 neurobiological reasons why people with active substance use disorders find it hard to stop using.
3. List one behavioral approach and one medication considered evidence-based addiction treatment.