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.
Title : Decoding aggression, violence, and substance use in adolescents with conduct disorders: Neurochemical pathways and interventions
Ann Marie Leonard Zabel, Curry College, United States
Title : Integrative addiction and mental health wellness lecture
John Giordano, Life Enhancement Recovery Center, United States
Title : Step one therapy
Ashton Christopher, Center for Recovery, Canada
Title : Addiction rehabilitation & recovery: Pathways to healing and resilience
Sindu Padmanabhan, Bharathiar University, India
Title : Tailoring biblio-poetry therapies using AI and biofeedback for addiction treatment
Nile Stanley, University of North Florida, United States
Title : The A-B-C of happiness coaching
Alphonsus Obayuwana, Triple-H Project LLC, United States