HYBRID EVENT: Join us in person in Boston, Massachusetts, USA or attend virtually from anywhere.
7th Edition of Global Conference on
Addiction Medicine, Behavioral Health and Psychiatry
October 19-21, 2026 | Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Neuroanatomy of Substance Dependence
Neuroanatomy of Substance Dependence
Substance dependence is deeply rooted in the brain's neuroanatomy, particularly involving the reward system, which includes the nucleus accumbens, prefrontal cortex, and ventral tegmental area. These structures regulate pleasure, motivation, and impulse control. Drugs like cocaine, opioids, and alcohol hijack this system by artificially increasing dopamine levels, reinforcing addictive behaviors. Over time, chronic use leads to structural and functional changes, such as reduced gray matter in the prefrontal cortex, impairing decision-making and self-regulation. Neuroplasticity plays a dual role in dependence and recovery, with targeted therapies focusing on rewiring these neural circuits to restore normal functioning.
Committee Members
Frederick J Goldstein
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, United States
Nile Stanley
University of North Florida, United States
Ann Marie Leonard Zabel
Curry College and NEALAC Clinic , United States GAB 2026 Speakers
John Michael Weber
Trauma Healed Life Coach, United States
Denis Larrivee
University of Navarra, Spain
Steve Cohen
Medvesta Hypnosis Healthcare, United States
Andrew Drasen
A Vision of Hope Media, United StatesSubmit your abstract Today
Title : The storm within: Neuropsychological insights into dysregulation and substance use in the adolescent brain
Ann Marie Leonard Zabel, Curry College and NEALAC Clinic , United States
Title : What to do when a tragedy strikes
Alphonsus Obayuwana, Triple-H Project LLC, United States
Title : The effect of Balint training on self-efficacy and empathy among medical students and the moderator role of personality traits and choice of specialty
Meni Koslowsky, Ariel University, Israel
Title : Genetic decoupling and global regulatory failure in diseases of agency
Denis Larrivee, University of Navarra, Spain
Title : Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde revealed: Tales from the default mode network
Christopher Ashton, TeDDs on Chapel, Centre for Recovery, Canada
Title : An unusual perspective for understanding and preventing bulimia relapse: Unhealthy sibling loyalty
Karen Gail Lewis, Private Practice, United States