Integrating the Science of Addiction and the Science of Wellbeing

Title : Integrating the Science of Addiction and the Science of Wellbeing

Abstract:

A gap between public understanding, cutting edge brain science and the practice of addiction treatment has created hardship for those suffering. New perspective replaces the term addiction with the new concept of a continuum of substance use.  Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is now regarded as a manifestation of Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS), which contributes to a spectrum of disorders related to genetic polymorphisms, especially in regard to impulsive, addictive and compulsive behaviors.  The new brain science of addiction requires neurological medical intervention and novel treatment with nutraceuticals, the building blocks of neurotransmission. Innovative alternative holistic and wellness therapies are proving to be beneficial  in helping the sufferer thrive despite chronic neurological challenge.

Biography:

Elizabeth Dale Gilley is a research scientist who focuses upon underlying neurogenetic and neurobiological syndrome which manifest as Substance Use Disorders and comorbid Mental Health Disorder Clusters.  The Elle Foundation 100 series in family genomics clearly demonstrates the Reward Deficiency Syndrome paradigm and how genomic applications  benefit RDS families over the generations. She is in her 6^th year of longitudinal studies for the 100s series.  She is in the data collection analysis phase of the 200s series, which will inform the design of a much larger study known as the EF300s.