7995-2 EA ORN Training – Addiction and the Adolescent Brain-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a session focused on adolescent substance use, Dr. Aishwarya Thakkar from Boston Children's Hospital discusses the impact of substances on the adolescent brain. The session highlights the developmental vulnerability of adolescents, whose brains, particularly the prefrontal cortex responsible for decision-making, are still maturing. Dr. Thakkar explains how adolescents are neurologically inclined to seek rewards, significantly increasing their susceptibility to substances like nicotine, cannabis, alcohol, and opioids.<br /><br />The talk covers research showing that substances like nicotine and cannabis can affect brain areas like the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, altering reward mechanisms and potentially decreasing memory and executive function over time. Dr. Thakkar also discusses the complexities of substance use in diverse populations, mentioning increased use in gender-diverse and racially diverse adolescents, often linked to broader societal stressors.<br /><br />Highlighting cannabis, she notes its increased THC potency and links to risks like reduced IQ and psychosis. Alcohol's neurotoxic effects are outlined, with an emphasis on how heavy use can alter adolescent brain function, even leading to structural changes. She also touches on the nuances of opioid use and addiction.<br /><br />The session underscores the importance of targeted prevention and education to mitigate the risk of substance use disorders among adolescents.

Keywords

adolescent substance use

brain development

prefrontal cortex

nicotine

cannabis

alcohol

opioids

diverse populations

prevention education