Sugar, Processed Foods, and Addiction with Dr. Nicole Avena
While food addiction is not recognized as a formal diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), researchers are investigating whether certain foods—particularly highly processed foods—may be associated with behaviors and brain responses that resemble those seen in substance use disorders In this Ask the Expert video, Dr. Nicole Avena, Professor of Neuroscience at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, discusses emerging research on food and process a
4 days ago
Stimulant Use Disorder: Diagnosis and Emerging Treatment Options with Dr. William Stoops
Stimulant use disorder affects millions of Americans, yet many misconceptions remain about how it develops, how it is diagnosed, and how it can be treated. Although there are no FDA-approved medications currently available specifically for stimulant use disorder, emerging research shows several medications—including dextroamphetamine, bupropion, naltrexone, and mirtazapine—have shown promise in reducing stimulant use. In this Ask the Expert video, Dr. William Stoops, Professo
6 days ago
Home-Based Brain Stimulation for Cannabis Use Disorder with Dr. Leigh Charvet
As cannabis products become more widely available, many people continue to view cannabis as a low-risk or even therapeutic for managing health symptoms such as anxiety, pain, and sleep difficulties. However, growing evidence suggests that today's high-potency cannabis products may carry significant risks for cognitive health, mental health, and the development of cannabis use disorder. As researchers work to better understand these risks, there is also increasing interest in
Aug 31
Addiction Recovery: Processes, Mechanisms, and Models with Dr. John Kelly
Recovery from substance use disorders is a long-term process that extends beyond the initial stages of treatment. Clinical interventions can play an important role in helping individuals begin recovery, but the risk of recurrence may remain elevated for years. Sustained recovery also depends on continued support and environments that help people build healthy, stable, and meaningful lives. In this Ask the Expert video, Dr. John Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medica
Aug 28
How Substance Use Disorders Affect the Brain with Dr. Brian Fuehrlein
Substance use disorders are complex medical conditions that affect the brain’s reward system, behavior, and decision-making. Yet, despite decades of scientific evidence, misconceptions about addiction continue to fuel stigma, which creates barriers for people to seek treatment and receive the support they need. Improving public understanding of the science of substance use disorders is essential to reducing stigma and promoting compassionate, evidence-based care. In this Ask
Aug 25
Estimating Addiction Knowledge and Stigma in America with Dr. Valerie Earnshaw
Despite growing awareness of addiction, important knowledge gaps remain that can influence how people respond to and treat people who are impacted by substance use disorders. Misconceptions about addiction can influence how people respond to those who are struggling, shaping everything from personal interactions to support for policies that expand access to care. Better understanding public attitudes toward addiction is an important step in reducing stigma and improving recov
Aug 25
Evidence-Based Policies and Practices Across the Criminal Justice System with Dr. Faye Taxman
Improving mental health outcomes for people involved in the criminal justice system requires more than access to treatment, it depends on implementing evidence-based practices that connect individuals with the right services at the right time. From diversion and mental health courts to supportive housing, integrated behavioral healthcare, and coordinated reentry services, research continues to identify strategies that can improve recovery while reducing unnecessary involvemen
Aug 5