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
Reward Processing in Substance Use Disorders
Reward Processing in Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders (SUDs) fundamentally alter the brain's reward system, which is primarily governed by dopamine. Drugs hijack this system, providing exaggerated rewards that surpass natural stimuli, such as food or social interaction. Over time, this leads to diminished sensitivity, making ordinary pleasures less rewarding. The imbalance in reward processing perpetuates compulsive drug-seeking behaviors. Neuroimaging studies reveal significant changes in brain regions like the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex, which regulate motivation and decision-making. Treatment approaches aim to recalibrate the reward system through behavioral therapies and medications, promoting the restoration of normal functioning.
Committee Members
John Michael Weber
Open Door Mission in Houston Texas, United States
Frederick J Goldstein
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, United States
Nile Stanley
University of North Florida, United States GAB 2026 Speakers
Andrew Drasen
A Vision of Hope Media, United States
Eric Cohen
Livio Labs, United States
John Michael Weber
Open Door Mission in Houston Texas, United States
Denis Larrivee
University of Navarra, SpainSubmit your abstract Today
Title : Integrating bibliopoetry therapy and digital health technologies for inflammation management: A neuropsychosomatic perspective
Nile Stanley, University of North Florida, United States
Title : Reduction of chronic neuropathic pain by a THC-CBD combination capsule: ongoing pilot study
Frederick J Goldstein, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, United States
Title : Suicide prevention strategies for the law enforcement profession
Stephanie Schweitzer Dixon, SSD Consulting, United States
Title : The twelve steps beyond alcohol: Applying recovery principles to food, perfectionism, and modern behavioral addictions
Mary Dobson, Liftwell Health, United States
Title : Understanding polyvagal dysregulation, addiction, and relationships: A holistic framework for mental health and recovery
Kimberly Lannon, Your Daily Game Face, United States
Title : Kratom: Exploring its pharmacology, mental health effects, and new challenges for addiction and behavioral health experts
Kimberly Lannon, Your Daily Game Face, United States