2. Addiction is a disease of the brain Characterized by: Compulsive Behavior Continued abuse of drugs despite negative consequences Persistent changes in the brain’s structure and function

3. Addiction Decades of research have revealed addiction to be a disease that alters the brain. We now know that while the initial decision to use drugs is voluntary, drug addiction is a disease of the brain that compels a person to become singularly obsessed with obtaining and abusing drugs despite their many adverse health and life consequences.

4. Why do people take drugs? To feel good To have novel feelings, sensations and experiences Share these experiences with others To feel good To lesson anxiety, worries, fears, depression, hopelessness

5. Dopamine Dopamine is a brain chemical involved in many different functions including movement, motivation, reward — and addiction.

6. Dopamine Nearly all drugs of abuse directly or indirectly increase dopamine in the pleasure and motivation pathways

7. Other Neurotransmitters Scientific research has shown that other neurotransmitter systems are also affected: Serotonin Regulates mood, sleep, etc. Glutamate Regulates learning and memory, etc.

8. This is your brain on drugs: Prolonged drug use changes the brain in fundamental and long-lasting way Evidence that these changes can be both structural and functional

9. Environmental Addiction Factors Stress Early physical or sexual abuse Witnessing violence Peers who use drugs Drug availability

10. Addiction Drug addiction, like other chronic diseases requires long- term treatment to help people get to a point where they can manage their recovery and regain their lives.