Course Description:
Addiction is a chronic disease caused by a flood of feel-good chemicals that overwhelm the brain’s reward system, leading to an unending search for more. Over 20 million people in the U.S., ages 12 and older, have a substance abuse disorder, yet only 10% receive care. Understanding the nature and symptoms of the various addictions enhances the identification and treatment of persons needing care and re-habilitation. This webinar will cover substance abuse disorders involving food, nicotine, alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), as well as the illicit drugs—opioids and opiates cocaine, methamphetamine other stimulants, and hallucinogens. The potential for addiction to sleep medications will also be addressed. A discussion of gambling disorder is included as an example of the many behavioral addictions —non-substance abuse disorders—that can affect mental and physical health. Dr. Pawlak will go over the latest debate regarding caffeine as a potential addictive substance. The webinar begins with a focus on the workings of the brain’s reward system during typical happy moments vs. the continued exposure to supernormal chemical stimulation. The course examines why some substances are more powerfully addictive than others. Emphasis is placed on the physiological differences between the major chemicals in cannabis, THC and CBD, and the future of medical marijuana. The presentation reviews the opioid overdose crisis—from morphine to heroin to fentanyl — and medical treatments. Stimulant drugs, like cocaine, will be described with attention to the devastating effects of addiction to methamphetamines. Non-addictive drugs, such as ecstacy and LSD, are addressed, including their potential therapeutic value for persons diagnosed with PTSD. Much needs to be done to end the senseless death or the possibility of a lifelong struggle due to addiction. Health professionals are the essential solution of this crisis.
Sponsor:
Institute for Natural Resources
CE Credits: 6
Contact Information:
INR Customer Service Department
877-246-6336
info@inrseminars.com