Breaking the Cycle: Science, Evidence-Based Treatment, & the Power of HOPE

Learning objectives: * 1) Understanding the core neurobiological mechanisms of addiction, including the mesolimbic dopamine reward pathway, neuroadaptation, and the transition from voluntary use to compulsive substance-seeking behavior. * 2) Identify key biopsychosocial risk factors that increase an individual’s vulnerability to developing a substance use disorder and explain why certain persons are more susceptible to specific substances. * 3) Summarize current evidence-based treatment modalities for substance use disorders, including brief descriptions of psychosocial interventions and pharmacologic options such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT). * 4) The Role of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) agents in managing withdrawal, craving, and relapse prevention. 5) Recognize the critical importance of hope, resilience, and perseverance in achieving sustained recovery