The Disease Process and Addressing Substance Use Disorders-TEACHING THE SCIENCE OF ADDICTION TO NON-CLINICIANS

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Chief Justice Tina Nadeau discusses the nature of addiction and how it should be addressed in courtrooms. She highlights the importance of understanding the brain science behind substance use disorder and emphasizes that addiction is not a matter of willpower, but rather a result of brain damage caused by drug use. Dr. DeVido is mentioned as a speaker who will provide further information on the topic. Nadeau also discusses the importance of treating the brain and behavior in order for individuals to overcome substance use disorder, stating that ordering someone to stop using drugs without addressing the underlying issues is no longer effective. She welcomes viewers to a session titled "The Science of Addiction: Teaching the Science of Addiction to Non-Clinical Professionals." The speaker, Dr. DeVido, is described as a psychiatrist with certifications in Addiction Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Nadeau also mentions that addiction is not glamorous, and that it is a brain disease rather than a moral failing. She explains that addiction is more than just physical dependence on a substance and that occasional use does not necessarily indicate addiction. Nadeau emphasizes that addiction is not hopeless and that people can recover with proper treatment. Finally, she introduces the concept of substance use disorder as a more preferred term over addiction and discusses the high prevalence of addiction and substance use disorders, as well as the need for better access to treatment. The video also includes a discussion on the neuroscience of addiction, highlighting the role of dopamine in the brain's reward circuitry. Nadeau explains how drugs of abuse stimulate the release of dopamine, resulting in a heightened sense of reward. However, over time, the brain adapts to the drug, leading to a decrease in the reward response and an increase in craving. She concludes by stating that addiction is a chronic relapsing illness and requires ongoing treatment and support for long-term recovery.

Keywords

addiction

substance use disorder

brain science

treatment

neuroscience

recovery

courtrooms