1) The document presents information from a drug rehabilitation center on how drugs affect the brain. It uses scientific images and explanations to show how drugs disrupt brain functions and can cause long-lasting changes.
2) PET scans are used to visualize these changes and how drug use impacts brain activity levels and reward centers. They demonstrate that even after stopping drug use, brain activity may be altered for months or longer.
3) The goal is to educate people on the biological factors of addiction and dispel myths, as anyone can become addicted due to drug-induced changes in the brain. Understanding the science behind addiction can empower individuals to make informed choices.
This document discusses drug abuse and addiction. It notes that drug addiction is a disease caused by changes to the brain from prolonged drug use. Factors like genetics, environment, peer pressure and mental health can influence the risk of addiction. Common signs of drug use include changes in mood and behavior. Many drugs like alcohol, tobacco, opioids and cannabis are addictive and can harm the body. Prevention of drug abuse requires efforts from families, schools, law enforcement and governments to address the root causes and restrict drug trafficking. Treatment involves medical and psychological support to overcome addiction.
Addiction is a biopsychosocial disorder characterized by repeated use of drugs, or repetitive engagement in a behavior such as gambling, despite harm to self and others.
The document discusses alcohol and substance abuse. It begins by listing commonly abused substances like alcohol, tramadol, marijuana, and caffeine. It then notes that the region with the highest rates of abuse is the Northwest region of Nigeria. Some true statements about substance abuse are that cocaine is the most widely used illegal drug, marijuana may be a gateway drug, and men should drink no more than 21 units of alcohol per week. Risk factors for substance abuse include peer pressure, low self-esteem, and dysfunctional families. The document outlines the magnitude of alcohol and substance abuse in Nigeria and discusses various substances that are commonly abused as well as the causes and health effects of alcohol and substance abuse.
Drug abuse refers to using drugs in a way that deviates from approved medical use, while drug addiction involves compulsive drug use that takes priority over other activities. Commonly abused drugs include depressants like alcohol and barbiturates, stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines, hallucinogens like LSD, marijuana, inhalants, and steroids. Cocaine works by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and other neurotransmitters, while morphine acts on opioid receptors to inhibit adenylate cyclase and produce sedation. Counseling patients and encouraging lifestyle changes can help those struggling with drug abuse and addiction.
Drug addiction is a chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive, or difficult to control, despite harmful consequences.
Brain changes that occur over time with drug use challenge an addicted person’s self-control and interfere with their ability to resist intense urges to take drugs. This is why drug addiction is also a relapsing disease.
Relapse is the return to drug use after an attempt to stop. Relapse indicates the need for more or different treatment.
Most drugs affect the brain's reward circuit by flooding it with the chemical messenger dopamine. This overstimulation of the reward circuit causes the intensely pleasurable "high" that leads people to take a drug again and again.
This document discusses drug addiction and abuse in teenagers. It begins by noting that drug abuse is a complex problem that affects people of all ages. It then explains how drugs change the way the brain works by interfering with neuron communication and changing the brain's reward system involving dopamine. Teenage brains are especially vulnerable as they are still developing. Psychological and social factors can push teenagers towards drug use. Addiction involves changes in the brain that cause compulsive drug craving and use. Treatment requires a holistic approach involving medication, behavioral therapies, and social support.
This document provides information about drugs and addiction presented by Group C. It defines drugs and discusses different types of drugs including marijuana, heroin, cocaine, alcohol, tobacco, LSD, speedball, MDMA, ketamine, and crystal meth. It explains how addiction develops and outlines the stages of addiction. It also discusses how various drugs are taken and their short-term and long-term effects. The document lists some drug rehabilitation centers in Himachal Pradesh and provides information on relapse rates and treatment for drug addiction. It ends with news headlines about the growing drug problem in India.
daily drug addiction is increasing at a higher rate.. and simply we all need to stop this if we want ourselves to live longer and healthier and also if we want any other relative of our who is addicted towards this..we need to stop this...and we need to create awareness against taking drugs...drugs in medicines are ok because they are used in it in a proper amount but drugs directly...HELL! IT CAN SNATCH YOUR LIFE JUST AWAY FROM YOUR BODY !
This document discusses drug abuse and addiction. It notes that drug addiction is a disease caused by changes to the brain from prolonged drug use. Factors like genetics, environment, peer pressure and mental health can influence the risk of addiction. Common signs of drug use include changes in mood and behavior. Many drugs like alcohol, tobacco, opioids and cannabis are addictive and can harm the body. Prevention of drug abuse requires efforts from families, schools, law enforcement and governments to address the root causes and restrict drug trafficking. Treatment involves medical and psychological support to overcome addiction.
Addiction is a biopsychosocial disorder characterized by repeated use of drugs, or repetitive engagement in a behavior such as gambling, despite harm to self and others.
The document discusses alcohol and substance abuse. It begins by listing commonly abused substances like alcohol, tramadol, marijuana, and caffeine. It then notes that the region with the highest rates of abuse is the Northwest region of Nigeria. Some true statements about substance abuse are that cocaine is the most widely used illegal drug, marijuana may be a gateway drug, and men should drink no more than 21 units of alcohol per week. Risk factors for substance abuse include peer pressure, low self-esteem, and dysfunctional families. The document outlines the magnitude of alcohol and substance abuse in Nigeria and discusses various substances that are commonly abused as well as the causes and health effects of alcohol and substance abuse.
Drug abuse refers to using drugs in a way that deviates from approved medical use, while drug addiction involves compulsive drug use that takes priority over other activities. Commonly abused drugs include depressants like alcohol and barbiturates, stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines, hallucinogens like LSD, marijuana, inhalants, and steroids. Cocaine works by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and other neurotransmitters, while morphine acts on opioid receptors to inhibit adenylate cyclase and produce sedation. Counseling patients and encouraging lifestyle changes can help those struggling with drug abuse and addiction.
Drug addiction is a chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive, or difficult to control, despite harmful consequences.
Brain changes that occur over time with drug use challenge an addicted person’s self-control and interfere with their ability to resist intense urges to take drugs. This is why drug addiction is also a relapsing disease.
Relapse is the return to drug use after an attempt to stop. Relapse indicates the need for more or different treatment.
Most drugs affect the brain's reward circuit by flooding it with the chemical messenger dopamine. This overstimulation of the reward circuit causes the intensely pleasurable "high" that leads people to take a drug again and again.
This document discusses drug addiction and abuse in teenagers. It begins by noting that drug abuse is a complex problem that affects people of all ages. It then explains how drugs change the way the brain works by interfering with neuron communication and changing the brain's reward system involving dopamine. Teenage brains are especially vulnerable as they are still developing. Psychological and social factors can push teenagers towards drug use. Addiction involves changes in the brain that cause compulsive drug craving and use. Treatment requires a holistic approach involving medication, behavioral therapies, and social support.
This document provides information about drugs and addiction presented by Group C. It defines drugs and discusses different types of drugs including marijuana, heroin, cocaine, alcohol, tobacco, LSD, speedball, MDMA, ketamine, and crystal meth. It explains how addiction develops and outlines the stages of addiction. It also discusses how various drugs are taken and their short-term and long-term effects. The document lists some drug rehabilitation centers in Himachal Pradesh and provides information on relapse rates and treatment for drug addiction. It ends with news headlines about the growing drug problem in India.
daily drug addiction is increasing at a higher rate.. and simply we all need to stop this if we want ourselves to live longer and healthier and also if we want any other relative of our who is addicted towards this..we need to stop this...and we need to create awareness against taking drugs...drugs in medicines are ok because they are used in it in a proper amount but drugs directly...HELL! IT CAN SNATCH YOUR LIFE JUST AWAY FROM YOUR BODY !
This document discusses the health risks of smoking and provides tips for quitting smoking. Some key points:
- Smoking is highly addictive and causes various health problems like cancer, heart disease, and strokes.
- Young people often start smoking due to social and cultural influences, though it can be difficult to quit due to addiction.
- Quitting smoking has immediate health benefits and reducing withdrawal symptoms is important.
- A multi-step approach is recommended to quit, including setting a date, getting support, learning new habits, and managing cravings. With motivation and support, successful quitting is possible.
Drug addiction is an intense desire to obtain increasing amounts of a substance due to the body's physical need or addiction to that agent. The document discusses various drugs like marijuana and their effects. It provides tips on how to get rid of drug addiction through self-determination, getting professional help like consulting doctors or checking into rehabilitation facilities, and adopting healthy habits like exercise, nutrition, yoga and meditation. Without treatment for addiction, the consequences can include going to a mental hospital, death, or jail.
The document discusses several types of addictions and disorders including substance abuse disorders, behavioral addictions like gambling addiction, and psychological disorders like compulsive lying. It notes that addictions are treatable diseases that affect the brain and involve neurological changes. Symptoms of substance abuse disorders in teenagers can include changes in mood, behavior, school performance, and relationships. Internet addiction is also discussed and defined as excessive computer use that interferes with other life activities.
The document discusses various substances that are commonly abused and their effects. It covers alcohol, hallucinogens like LSD and mushrooms, stimulants like cocaine and meth, marijuana, opiates like heroin, inhalants, MDMA (ecstasy), Rohypol (flunitrazepam), ketamine, and GHB. For each substance, it summarizes the intoxication effects, risks of long-term abuse like organ damage and addiction, and withdrawal symptoms. Nursing considerations are also discussed for assessing and treating patients with substance abuse and addiction issues.
This document discusses the history and health effects of smoking. It begins by outlining the origins of tobacco use among Native Americans and its spread to Europe. It then details the addictive properties of nicotine and how cigarettes effectively deliver nicotine to the brain. The document covers the social and cultural role of smoking as well as initiatives to reduce it. Finally, it outlines strategies for smoking cessation and the health benefits of quitting, including reduced risk of lung cancer, heart disease and improved lung function.
Drug abuse and addiction is a disorder characterized by destructive patterns of substance use that leads to problems or distress. It is considered a disease that involves tolerance to or withdrawal from the substance, as well as social, work, or school problems. Commonly abused drugs include alcohol, amphetamines, anabolic steroids, caffeine, cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy, hallucinogens, inhalants, nicotine and more. Signs of drug abuse include feeling the need to use regularly, failing attempts to stop, making sacrifices to obtain drugs, and risky behaviors while under the influence. Treatment involves screening, brief interventions, and brief treatment depending on the severity of substance abuse problems.
This document discusses smoking and its health effects. It defines smoking as burning a substance and inhaling the smoke. Tobacco contains nicotine, which is addictive, and people use tobacco via smoking, chewing, or snuff. Smoking causes over 3 million premature deaths per year due to diseases like cancer, heart disease, and lung disease. When tobacco burns, it produces over 4000 chemicals like nicotine, carbon monoxide, and tar. These chemicals are harmful and can cause health issues. However, quitting smoking can significantly reduce health risks over time as the body recovers. Education is important to prevent youth smoking initiation and protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.
Drug addiction is a complex brain disease characterized by uncontrollable drug desire and use even with negative consequences. In Bangladesh, drug addiction is a growing national concern, with millions of people addicted from all levels of society. The main causes of drug addiction include stress, mental health issues, social problems, and easy access to drugs. Treatment options include both inpatient and outpatient programs with the goal of preventing drug addiction through licensing, enforcement, and education.
This document discusses drug abuse and addiction. It defines drugs and the differences between drug abuse and addiction. It describes various types of drugs like stimulants, depressants, opiates, and hallucinogens. It discusses reasons why people take drugs and provides statistics on drug use worldwide. The document also covers the effects of specific drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and krokodil. It discusses prevention of drug abuse and treatments for drug addiction. Finally, it highlights the severe drug problem in the state of Punjab, India.
Drug abuse hurts the people who take drugs AND the people around them, including families, kids, and babies who aren't yet born. Drug abuse hurts the body and the brain, sometimes forever.
This document discusses drugs and drug abuse. It defines a drug as a medicine or substance that has physiological effects on the body. Drug abuse occurs when drugs are used for non-medical purposes in excessive or harmful ways. Common causes of drug abuse include peer pressure, lack of parental love, psychological distress, and unemployment. Physical, behavioral, and psychological signs of drug abuse are detailed. The effects of drug abuse include disease transmission, criminal behavior, social disorder, and even death. Prevention strategies proposed include education, family support, counseling, community involvement, and legal restrictions. Treatment for drug addicts should be supportive and include health care, counseling, rehabilitation, and a caring community.
The document summarizes key topics related to drug use and abuse, including:
1) It discusses various systems influenced by drug use such as athletic, legal, religious, and more.
2) It defines important terms like pharmacology, psychopharmacology, drug, drug abuse, drug use, and drug effects.
3) It describes different ways drugs can be classified including by origin, therapeutic use, site of action, chemical structure, and mechanism of action.
4) It outlines factors that influence the drug experience including pharmacological properties, drug user characteristics, setting, and more.
The document discusses signs and symptoms of drug abuse including changes in weight, sleep patterns, activities, mood, physical appearance, and increased risky behaviors. It notes that over time an addiction can cause one's entire life to revolve around obtaining drugs and their health and relationships to deteriorate. Some signs mentioned include needle marks, runny nose, watery eyes, searching for money, paranoia, and declining hygiene. The effects of drug abuse on mental and physical health are also outlined.
This document defines addiction and discusses its various types. Addiction is defined as a psychological and physical inability to stop consuming a substance or engaging in an activity, even when it is causing harm. The most common addictions are to drugs like nicotine, THC, opioids, and cocaine, as well as alcohol, caffeine, gambling, food, technology, sex, and work. Signs of addiction include social and behavioral changes, health issues, and an inability to control substance use or harmful behaviors. Treatment involves medication, psychotherapy, medical services, and support groups. Untreated addiction can lead to long-term physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences.
The nervous system controls all activities of the body through the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It allows the body to react to stimuli in the environment to maintain homeostasis. The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The brain controls functions like thinking, memory, movement, and processing sensory information. It is divided into the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem. The spinal cord connects the brain to the rest of the nervous system. The nervous system uses nerve impulses and reflexes to carry messages through sensory, motor, and automatic nerves.
The document discusses drugs, drug abuse, and addiction. It defines drugs as substances that alter normal bodily functions when absorbed into the body. It notes that drug abuse is an intense desire to obtain increasing amounts of a substance and that drug dependence results in physical harm and behavioral issues over the long term. The document also shares the story of a teenager named Alby who abused drugs from ages 13 to 18 but was able to get treatment and now feels better about himself. It discusses surveys and activities conducted by students on these topics, including visiting a rehabilitation center.
This document discusses substance abuse, including types of drugs like marijuana, LSD, ecstasy, and cocaine. It outlines the effects of each drug and common causes of substance abuse like peer pressure, stress, and imitating celebrities. The impact of drug abuse is described as physical and psychological risks, behavioral changes, poor school performance, and potential addiction. Strategies for prevention include teaching prevention in schools, after-school programs, drug education, and strengthening societal norms against drug use.
CANSA aligns itself with the theme of World No Tobacco Day 2023 which is "We need food not tobacco" to highlight concerns about tobacco's impact on food insecurity. Along with other organizations, CANSA continues campaigning for the Control of Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill to regulate e-cigarettes and protect people from the threats of tobacco use. Tobacco kills over eight million people worldwide every year and damages the environment. [/SUMMARY]
The document discusses drug classification, signs of drug abuse, causes of drug abuse, and ways to help drug addicts. It classifies drugs as pharmaceutical or recreational and identifies categories of addictive drugs like narcotics, stimulants, and depressants. Signs of drug abuse are described as physical, behavioral, emotional, and changes in family dynamics. Risk factors for drug addiction include family history, relationships, self-esteem, and peer pressure. Ways to help include education, resisting peer pressure, managing stress, rehabilitation centers, and prevention programs involving families and communities.
The document discusses that depression is caused by complex biological factors rather than a simple chemical imbalance. It involves interactions between genetics, brain chemistry, stress, and life experiences. While neurotransmitters play a role in mood regulation, depression does not result from just having too much or too little of certain brain chemicals. The brain regions like the amygdala, hippocampus, and thalamus are also involved.
The document discusses the nervous system and how it enables humans to experience their environment, think, and take action. It describes the main components of the nervous system - the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It explains how neurons transmit signals in the brain and body, the role of neurotransmitters, and examples of diseases that can affect the nervous system like Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and Huntington's disease. It provides videos for further learning about the structures and functions of the brain and nervous system.
This document discusses the health risks of smoking and provides tips for quitting smoking. Some key points:
- Smoking is highly addictive and causes various health problems like cancer, heart disease, and strokes.
- Young people often start smoking due to social and cultural influences, though it can be difficult to quit due to addiction.
- Quitting smoking has immediate health benefits and reducing withdrawal symptoms is important.
- A multi-step approach is recommended to quit, including setting a date, getting support, learning new habits, and managing cravings. With motivation and support, successful quitting is possible.
Drug addiction is an intense desire to obtain increasing amounts of a substance due to the body's physical need or addiction to that agent. The document discusses various drugs like marijuana and their effects. It provides tips on how to get rid of drug addiction through self-determination, getting professional help like consulting doctors or checking into rehabilitation facilities, and adopting healthy habits like exercise, nutrition, yoga and meditation. Without treatment for addiction, the consequences can include going to a mental hospital, death, or jail.
The document discusses several types of addictions and disorders including substance abuse disorders, behavioral addictions like gambling addiction, and psychological disorders like compulsive lying. It notes that addictions are treatable diseases that affect the brain and involve neurological changes. Symptoms of substance abuse disorders in teenagers can include changes in mood, behavior, school performance, and relationships. Internet addiction is also discussed and defined as excessive computer use that interferes with other life activities.
The document discusses various substances that are commonly abused and their effects. It covers alcohol, hallucinogens like LSD and mushrooms, stimulants like cocaine and meth, marijuana, opiates like heroin, inhalants, MDMA (ecstasy), Rohypol (flunitrazepam), ketamine, and GHB. For each substance, it summarizes the intoxication effects, risks of long-term abuse like organ damage and addiction, and withdrawal symptoms. Nursing considerations are also discussed for assessing and treating patients with substance abuse and addiction issues.
This document discusses the history and health effects of smoking. It begins by outlining the origins of tobacco use among Native Americans and its spread to Europe. It then details the addictive properties of nicotine and how cigarettes effectively deliver nicotine to the brain. The document covers the social and cultural role of smoking as well as initiatives to reduce it. Finally, it outlines strategies for smoking cessation and the health benefits of quitting, including reduced risk of lung cancer, heart disease and improved lung function.
Drug abuse and addiction is a disorder characterized by destructive patterns of substance use that leads to problems or distress. It is considered a disease that involves tolerance to or withdrawal from the substance, as well as social, work, or school problems. Commonly abused drugs include alcohol, amphetamines, anabolic steroids, caffeine, cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy, hallucinogens, inhalants, nicotine and more. Signs of drug abuse include feeling the need to use regularly, failing attempts to stop, making sacrifices to obtain drugs, and risky behaviors while under the influence. Treatment involves screening, brief interventions, and brief treatment depending on the severity of substance abuse problems.
This document discusses smoking and its health effects. It defines smoking as burning a substance and inhaling the smoke. Tobacco contains nicotine, which is addictive, and people use tobacco via smoking, chewing, or snuff. Smoking causes over 3 million premature deaths per year due to diseases like cancer, heart disease, and lung disease. When tobacco burns, it produces over 4000 chemicals like nicotine, carbon monoxide, and tar. These chemicals are harmful and can cause health issues. However, quitting smoking can significantly reduce health risks over time as the body recovers. Education is important to prevent youth smoking initiation and protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.
Drug addiction is a complex brain disease characterized by uncontrollable drug desire and use even with negative consequences. In Bangladesh, drug addiction is a growing national concern, with millions of people addicted from all levels of society. The main causes of drug addiction include stress, mental health issues, social problems, and easy access to drugs. Treatment options include both inpatient and outpatient programs with the goal of preventing drug addiction through licensing, enforcement, and education.
This document discusses drug abuse and addiction. It defines drugs and the differences between drug abuse and addiction. It describes various types of drugs like stimulants, depressants, opiates, and hallucinogens. It discusses reasons why people take drugs and provides statistics on drug use worldwide. The document also covers the effects of specific drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and krokodil. It discusses prevention of drug abuse and treatments for drug addiction. Finally, it highlights the severe drug problem in the state of Punjab, India.
Drug abuse hurts the people who take drugs AND the people around them, including families, kids, and babies who aren't yet born. Drug abuse hurts the body and the brain, sometimes forever.
This document discusses drugs and drug abuse. It defines a drug as a medicine or substance that has physiological effects on the body. Drug abuse occurs when drugs are used for non-medical purposes in excessive or harmful ways. Common causes of drug abuse include peer pressure, lack of parental love, psychological distress, and unemployment. Physical, behavioral, and psychological signs of drug abuse are detailed. The effects of drug abuse include disease transmission, criminal behavior, social disorder, and even death. Prevention strategies proposed include education, family support, counseling, community involvement, and legal restrictions. Treatment for drug addicts should be supportive and include health care, counseling, rehabilitation, and a caring community.
The document summarizes key topics related to drug use and abuse, including:
1) It discusses various systems influenced by drug use such as athletic, legal, religious, and more.
2) It defines important terms like pharmacology, psychopharmacology, drug, drug abuse, drug use, and drug effects.
3) It describes different ways drugs can be classified including by origin, therapeutic use, site of action, chemical structure, and mechanism of action.
4) It outlines factors that influence the drug experience including pharmacological properties, drug user characteristics, setting, and more.
The document discusses signs and symptoms of drug abuse including changes in weight, sleep patterns, activities, mood, physical appearance, and increased risky behaviors. It notes that over time an addiction can cause one's entire life to revolve around obtaining drugs and their health and relationships to deteriorate. Some signs mentioned include needle marks, runny nose, watery eyes, searching for money, paranoia, and declining hygiene. The effects of drug abuse on mental and physical health are also outlined.
This document defines addiction and discusses its various types. Addiction is defined as a psychological and physical inability to stop consuming a substance or engaging in an activity, even when it is causing harm. The most common addictions are to drugs like nicotine, THC, opioids, and cocaine, as well as alcohol, caffeine, gambling, food, technology, sex, and work. Signs of addiction include social and behavioral changes, health issues, and an inability to control substance use or harmful behaviors. Treatment involves medication, psychotherapy, medical services, and support groups. Untreated addiction can lead to long-term physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences.
The nervous system controls all activities of the body through the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It allows the body to react to stimuli in the environment to maintain homeostasis. The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The brain controls functions like thinking, memory, movement, and processing sensory information. It is divided into the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem. The spinal cord connects the brain to the rest of the nervous system. The nervous system uses nerve impulses and reflexes to carry messages through sensory, motor, and automatic nerves.
The document discusses drugs, drug abuse, and addiction. It defines drugs as substances that alter normal bodily functions when absorbed into the body. It notes that drug abuse is an intense desire to obtain increasing amounts of a substance and that drug dependence results in physical harm and behavioral issues over the long term. The document also shares the story of a teenager named Alby who abused drugs from ages 13 to 18 but was able to get treatment and now feels better about himself. It discusses surveys and activities conducted by students on these topics, including visiting a rehabilitation center.
This document discusses substance abuse, including types of drugs like marijuana, LSD, ecstasy, and cocaine. It outlines the effects of each drug and common causes of substance abuse like peer pressure, stress, and imitating celebrities. The impact of drug abuse is described as physical and psychological risks, behavioral changes, poor school performance, and potential addiction. Strategies for prevention include teaching prevention in schools, after-school programs, drug education, and strengthening societal norms against drug use.
CANSA aligns itself with the theme of World No Tobacco Day 2023 which is "We need food not tobacco" to highlight concerns about tobacco's impact on food insecurity. Along with other organizations, CANSA continues campaigning for the Control of Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill to regulate e-cigarettes and protect people from the threats of tobacco use. Tobacco kills over eight million people worldwide every year and damages the environment. [/SUMMARY]
The document discusses drug classification, signs of drug abuse, causes of drug abuse, and ways to help drug addicts. It classifies drugs as pharmaceutical or recreational and identifies categories of addictive drugs like narcotics, stimulants, and depressants. Signs of drug abuse are described as physical, behavioral, emotional, and changes in family dynamics. Risk factors for drug addiction include family history, relationships, self-esteem, and peer pressure. Ways to help include education, resisting peer pressure, managing stress, rehabilitation centers, and prevention programs involving families and communities.
The document discusses that depression is caused by complex biological factors rather than a simple chemical imbalance. It involves interactions between genetics, brain chemistry, stress, and life experiences. While neurotransmitters play a role in mood regulation, depression does not result from just having too much or too little of certain brain chemicals. The brain regions like the amygdala, hippocampus, and thalamus are also involved.
The document discusses the nervous system and how it enables humans to experience their environment, think, and take action. It describes the main components of the nervous system - the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It explains how neurons transmit signals in the brain and body, the role of neurotransmitters, and examples of diseases that can affect the nervous system like Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and Huntington's disease. It provides videos for further learning about the structures and functions of the brain and nervous system.
The document discusses the nervous system and how it enables humans to experience their environment, think, and take action. It describes the main components of the nervous system - the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It explains how neurons transmit signals in the brain and body, the role of neurotransmitters, and examples of diseases that can affect the nervous system like Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and Huntington's disease. It provides links to additional educational videos about the nervous system, brain structures and functions, neurons, and how diseases impact the brain.
Learn more about the brain
Here are a few videos about the human brain on YouTube:
For Adults:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7PjJkX9nyw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_5myLhhzwE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D33Aj5w061g
For Kids:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPfd80I9s1E
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXu0-L4TAn4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7FdMi03CzI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nH4MRvO-10
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kGv8jnB8EE
The nervous system forms a communication network throughout the body. It has two main divisions: the central nervous system (CNS) consisting of the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) made up of nerves. Neurons are specialized to carry electrical signals and come in three types - sensory, inter and motor. The brain is the control center and is divided into the cerebrum, diencephalon, cerebellum and brain stem. Diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, strokes and meningitis can affect the brain.
The document discusses the structure and function of the nervous system. It begins by describing how simple animals like hydra have nerve nets, while more complex animals have centralized nervous systems made of the brain and spinal cord. It then discusses the basic tasks of the nervous system, including sensory input, integration of information, and motor output. The rest of the document goes into further detail about the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, as well as the peripheral nervous system and senses.
The document discusses addiction and the brain pathways involved. It describes how drugs of abuse hijack the brain's reward system by stimulating dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens. This leads to compulsive drug seeking behavior even as tolerance and dependence develop. Imaging studies using PET scans show how drug use changes brain activity patterns and how memory of drug cues can trigger craving even after recovery.
The document discusses the human nervous system. It describes the nervous system as composed of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. The brain is divided into three main sections - the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem. Neurons transmit signals through electrical and chemical processes. Neurotransmitters help facilitate communication between neurons. Diseases like Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and Huntington's can impact the nervous system by damaging neurons or myelin sheaths. Protecting the brain from injury is important for preventing loss of function.
This document provides an overview of the key concepts in chapter 2 of the biology of the mind textbook. It discusses the building blocks of the mind including neurons and how they communicate via neurotransmitters. It describes the major structures and functions of the nervous system including the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, and autonomic nervous system. Key areas of the brain are also outlined such as the brainstem, limbic system, cerebral cortex, and lobes. Investigation techniques for studying the brain like lesions, brain imaging, and stimulation are summarized.
This document provides an overview of the key concepts in the biology of the mind discussed in Chapter 2. It begins by outlining the building blocks of the mind, including neurons and neurotransmitters. It then describes the different parts and systems that make up the nervous system and brain. The document discusses how researchers study the biology of the mind through investigating cases of brain damage, stimulating parts of the brain, and monitoring brain activity using tools like CAT scans, MRIs, and PET scans. The goal is to better understand how the structures and systems in the brain give rise to the mind and behavior.
The nervous system comprises the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system. The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, which control the mind and behavior. The peripheral nervous system has two divisions - the autonomic nervous system which regulates involuntary functions, and the somatic nervous system which controls voluntary skeletal muscle movement. Neurons are the basic functional units of the nervous system, sending and receiving electrochemical signals that allow for sensory input, integration of information, and motor output.
This document discusses how drugs and alcohol work in the brain by interacting with neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. It explains that drugs can mimic neurotransmitters, stimulate their release, or prevent their reuptake. While drugs may temporarily change mood or perception, they can also cause long-term brain damage and addiction. However, natural activities like exercise, meditation, helping others, and hobbies can also elevate mood through neurotransmitters without harm. Making natural highs a regular part of life may help reduce reliance on drugs and alcohol for their perceived benefits.
The document discusses the central nervous system. It describes how the brain and spinal cord work together, with the brain being the control center that processes information and the spinal cord relaying messages between the brain and body. It explains the main parts of the brain like the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem and their functions. It also discusses how addictive drugs affect the brain's reward system by stimulating dopamine release, and how this can lead to changes in the brain related to addiction over time.
You wrote this scenario from the perspective of Behaviorism learni.docxrosemarybdodson23141
You wrote this scenario from the perspective of Behaviorism learning theory Now I want two scenarios same this scenario but from two different perspectives that they are Cognitivism Learning theory and Social learning theory
For further clarification see attached example
Learning Situation from Behaviorism Learning Theory
The class of 20 students is divided into two teams, having 10 students in each team. The teacher makes two columns on the board for team A and team B. Teacher points out, Yesterday in our history class we studied about the civil rights movement I hope you have well-prepared that topic. Let’s start an informal quiz based on yesterday’s topic. Are you guys ready? Students say, “Yes”! Teacher starts asking questions. Team A! Which sports Jackie Robinson played? Students raised their hands. Robert? Can you give the answer? Robert says soccer. Teacher appreciating Robert’s effort says very good Robert and write 10 under the column of Team A. Next question for Team B, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. went to the college to become? Students raise their hands. James, can you answer? James says, “Minister”. Teacher appreciates the attempt but the answer is not correct. Ok! Now, what you guys think what was the main contribution of Abraham Lincoln?Timothy raised his hand and replied, he brought freedom and abolish slavery. Rosie raised her hand and replied, he ran the country being a president of the country. Teacher says, when we freedom was attained by the African American it was not solely due to Abraham Lincoln. Who played the actual role? Joseph replies, African Americans themselves. Teacher appreciated Joseph’s answer saying absolutely right. No leader can bring freedom from slavery or racism until its people are themselves not ready to put their efforts. Nation needs to be united to get rid of inequality.
Learning Situation from Cognitivism Learning Theory:
Learning Situation from Social Learning Theory:
3 | Page
Chapter 2 terminology
Psych260
Nervous System-
A network of billions of cells in the brain and the body responsible for all aspects of what we feel, think, and do.
Central nervous system-
The part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and the spinal cord.
Peripheral nervous system-
The part of the nervous central nervous system with the muscles, organs and glands.
Neurons-
The basic units of the nervous system cells that receive integrate and transmit information in the nervous system. Neurons operate through electrical impulses communicate with other neurons through electrical impulses communicate with other neurons through chemical signals and form neural networks.
Dendrites –
Branchlike extensions of the neuron with receptors that detect information from other neurons.
Cell Body-
Part of the neuron where information from thousands of other neurons is collected and integrated.
Axon-
A long narrow outgrowth of a neuron that enables the neuron to transmit information to other neurons..
The document discusses how the brain works and its structure. It explains that the brain is made up of three main parts - the forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain. The largest part is the cerebrum, which controls thought and action. It is divided into two hemispheres and four lobes (frontal, parietal, occipital, temporal) which are responsible for different functions like memory, language processing and sensory information. Meditation can have psychological and physiological benefits by disengaging self-consciousness and freeing the mind from attachments. Understanding how meditation affects the brain provides insights into consciousness and human behavior.
Human behavior and personality development are influenced by biological and environmental factors. The central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, gives rise to the mind and controls behavior. The brain is made up of neurons that communicate via neurotransmitters at synapses. Development involves growth, maturation, and learning across physical, cognitive, and psychological domains over one's lifetime. Personality represents the total integration of an individual and develops through dynamic changes from childhood to adulthood.
The document discusses several questions related to the brain and its functions. It asks about the average number of brain cells, the percentage of energy the brain uses, the brain's weight, the percentage of the brain humans use, and the number of times brain cells and synapses fire signals per second. All of these questions relate to understanding the basic biological functions and capabilities of the human brain.
This document discusses neurons and brain imaging techniques. It provides information on the basic structure and function of neurons, including the cell body, axon, dendrites and synapses. It also covers different types of neurons and neurotransmitters. The document then discusses several common brain imaging techniques used in neuroscience, including fMRI, CT, PET and EEG scans. It provides brief descriptions of how each technique works and what type of information it can provide about brain structure and function.
Topic 4 The brain and neuropsychology - how does your brain affect you?NHS England
The document provides information about the structure and function of the brain and how neurological damage can impact cognition and behavior. It discusses how the brain is divided into two hemispheres with specialized functions. Damage to different areas of the brain, such as the parietal lobe, occipital lobe, or prefrontal cortex, can cause distinct problems depending on the location. The central nervous system allows communication between the brain and body through neurons, synapses, and neurotransmitters. Neurological damage disrupts these normal processes and signaling in the brain.
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The Ultimate Guide in Setting Up Market Research System in Health-TechGokul Rangarajan
How to effectively start market research in the health tech industry by defining objectives, crafting problem statements, selecting methods, identifying data collection sources, and setting clear timelines. This guide covers all the preliminary steps needed to lay a strong foundation for your research.
"Market Research it too text-booky, I am in the market for a decade, I am living research book" this is what the founder I met on the event claimed, few of my colleagues rolled their eyes. Its true that one cannot over look the real life experience, but one cannot out beat structured gold mine of market research.
Many 0 to 1 startup founders often overlook market research, but this critical step can make or break a venture, especially in health tech.
But Why do they skip it?
Limited resources—time, money, and manpower—are common culprits.
"In fact, a survey by CB Insights found that 42% of startups fail due to no market need, which is like building a spaceship to Mars only to realise you forgot the fuel."
Sudharsan Srinivasan
Operational Partner Pitchworks VC Studio
Overconfidence in their product’s success leads founders to assume it will naturally find its market, especially in health tech where patient needs, entire system issues and regulatory requirements are as complex as trying to perform brain surgery with a butter knife. Additionally, the pressure to launch quickly and the belief in their own intuition further contribute to this oversight. Yet, thorough market research in health tech could be the key to transforming a startup's vision into a life-saving reality, instead of a medical mishap waiting to happen.
Example of Market Research working
Innovaccer, founded by Abhinav Shashank in 2014, focuses on improving healthcare delivery through data-driven insights and interoperability solutions. Before launching their platform, Innovaccer conducted extensive market research to understand the challenges faced by healthcare organizations and the potential for innovation in healthcare IT.
Identifying Pain Points: Innovaccer surveyed healthcare providers to understand their difficulties with data integration, care coordination, and patient engagement. They found widespread frustration with siloed systems and inefficient workflows.
Competitive Analysis: Analyzed competitors offering similar solutions in healthcare analytics and interoperability. Identified gaps in comprehensive data aggregation, real-time analytics, and actionable insights.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensured their platform complied with HIPAA and other healthcare data privacy regulations. This compliance was crucial to gaining trust from healthcare providers wary of data security issues.
Customer Validation: Conducted pilot programs with several healthcare organizations to validate the platform's effectiveness in improving care outcomes and operational efficiency. Gathered feedback to refine features and user interface.
Digital Health in India_Health Informatics Trained Manpower _DrDevTaneja_15.0...DrDevTaneja1
Digital India will need a big trained army of Health Informatics educated & trained manpower in India.
Presently, generalist IT manpower does most of the work in the healthcare industry in India. Academic Health Informatics education is not readily available at school & health university level or IT education institutions in India.
We look into the evolution of health informatics and its applications in the healthcare industry.
HIMMS TIGER resources are available to assist Health Informatics education.
Indian Health universities, IT Education institutions, and the healthcare industry must proactively collaborate to start health informatics courses on a big scale. An advocacy push from various stakeholders is also needed for this goal.
Health informatics has huge employment potential and provides a big business opportunity for the healthcare industry. A big pool of trained health informatics manpower can lead to product & service innovations on a global scale in India.
English Drug and Alcohol Commissioners June 2024.pptxMatSouthwell1
Presentation made by Mat Southwell to the Harm Reduction Working Group of the English Drug and Alcohol Commissioners. Discuss stimulants, OAMT, NSP coverage and community-led approach to DCRs. Focussing on active drug user perspectives and interests
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Basics of Electrocardiogram
CONTENTS
●Conduction System of the Heart
●What is ECG or EKG?
●ECG Leads
●Normal waves of ECG.
●Dimensions of ECG.
● Abnormalities of ECG
CONDUCTION SYSTEM OF THE HEART
ECG:
●ECG is a graphic record of the electrical activity of the heart.
●Electrical activity precedes the mechanical activity of the heart.
●Electrical activity has two phases:
Depolarization- contraction of muscle
Repolarization- relaxation of muscle
ECG Leads:
●6 Chest leads
●6 Limb leads
1. Bipolar Limb Leads:
Lead 1- Between right arm(-ve) and left arm(+ve)
Lead 2- Between right arm(-ve) and left leg(+ve)
Lead 3- Between left arm(-ve)
and left leg(+ve)
2. Augmented unipolar Limb Leads:
AvR- Right arm
AvL- Left arm
AvF- Left leg
3.Chest Leads:
V1 : Over 4th intercostal
space near right sternal margin
V2: Over 4th intercostal space near left sternal margin
V3:In between V2 and V4
V4:Over left 5th intercostal space on the mid
clavicular line
V5:Over left 5th intercostal space on the anterior
axillary line
V6:Over left 5th intercostal space on the mid
axillary line.
Normal ECG:
Waves of ECG:
P Wave
•P Wave is a positive wave and the first wave in ECG.
•It is also called as atrial complex.
Cause: Atrial depolarisation
Duration: 0.1 sec
QRS Complex:
•QRS’ complex is also called the initial ventricular complex.
•‘Q’ wave is a small negative wave. It is continued as the tall ‘R’ wave, which is a positive wave.
‘R’ wave is followed by a small negative wave, the ‘S’ wave.
Cause:Ventricular depolarization and atrial repolarization
Duration: 0.08- 0.10 sec
T Wave:
•‘T’ wave is the final ventricular complex and is a positive wave.
Cause:Ventricular repolarization Duration: 0.2 sec
Intervals and Segments of ECG:
P-R Interval:
•‘P-R’ interval is the interval
between the onset of ‘P’wave and onset of ‘Q’ wave.
•‘P-R’ interval cause atrial depolarization and conduction of impulses through AV node.
Duration:0.18 (0.12 to 0.2) sec
Q-T Interval:
•‘Q-T’ interval is the interval between the onset of ‘Q’
wave and the end of ‘T’ wave.
•‘Q-T’ interval indicates the ventricular depolarization
and ventricular repolarization,
i.e. it signifies the
electrical activity in ventricles.
Duration:0.4-0.42sec
S-T Segment:
•‘S-T’ segment is the time interval between the end of ‘S’ wave and the onset of ‘T’ wave.
Duration: 0.08 sec
R-R Interval:
•‘R-R’ interval is the time interval between two consecutive ‘R’ waves.
•It signifies the duration of one cardiac cycle.
Duration: 0.8 sec
Dimension of ECG:
How to find heart rhytm of the heart?
Regular rhytm:
Irregular rhytm:
More than or less than 4
How to find heart rate using ECG?
If heart Rhytm is Regular :
Heart rate =
300/No.of large b/w 2 QRS complex
= 300/4
=75 beats/mins
How to find heart rate using ECG?
If heart Rhytm is irregular:
Heart rate = 10×No.of QRS complex in 6 sec 5large box = 1sec
5×6=30
10×7 = 70 Beats/min
Abnormalities of ECG:
Cardiac Arrythmias:
1.Tachycardia
Heart Rate more than 100 beats/min
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2024 Media Preferences of Older Adults: Consumer Survey and Marketing Implica...Media Logic
When it comes to creating marketing strategies that target older adults, it is crucial to have insight into their media habits and preferences. Understanding how older adults consume and use media is key to creating acquisition and retention strategies. We recently conducted our seventh annual survey to gain insight into the media preferences of older adults in 2024. Here are the survey responses and marketing implications that stood out to us.
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2. Slide 1: New life Foundations is part of the National Institutes of Health and is dedicated to bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and
addiction
When a person first thinks about trying drugs, it is usually a voluntary decision. “Maybe I should see what it’s like.., just this once,” you might think. Or a
friend dares you. Or you just want to feel good or forget your troubles. Most drugs of abuse—including nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin—
activate a part of the brain called the reward system, and that makes you feel good.
Drug abuse has serious consequences. The most serious consequence is that prolonged drug use can change the brain in fundamental and long-lasting
ways. Eventually, it becomes difficult to derive pleasure from other normal activities, such as sports, food, or sex.
After repeated drug use, you reach a point when deciding to use drugs is no longer voluntary. Scientists have proof now that drugs literally change your
brain. It’s as if a “switch” goes off in the brain. It is during this transformation process that a drug abuser becomes a drug addict.
Addiction is a chronic relapsing disease characterized by compulsive, often uncontrollable, drug seeking and drug use in the face of negative
consequences. Drug addicts need professional help and treatment to help them cope with these changes and possibly change the brain back to normal.
3. Slide 2: The brain is the most complex organ in the body
The brain is made up of a complex network of billions of nerve cells called neurons, as well as other kinds of cells, all protected by the skull. The
typical brain weighs only about 3 pounds, but it is the source of most qualities that make you who you are. Neurons in the brain and spinal cord are
part of the nervous system and act as a body’s “Command Central.”
The brain is constantly active, even when we are asleep. As a matter of fact, asleep or awake, the brain requires 20 percent of the heart’s output of
fresh blood and 20 percent of the blood’s oxygen and glucose to keep functioning properly. Glucose is a type of sugar that is our brain’s primary
fuel.
The brain produces enough electrical energy to power a 40-watt light bulb for 24 hours. That’s a lot of energy for a human organ a little bigger than
a softball.
4. Slide 3: How a neuron works
Neurons are unique because of their computational prowess that allows them to rapidly process, integrate, and disseminate vast
amounts of information within the brain and throughout the body.
Your brain communicates with the rest of your body by sending messages from one neuron to the next and ultimately to the muscles
and organs of the body. Neurons can also store information, a fundamental property that, when scaled up to the level of whole
networks, allows for the creation of memories.
Typically, a neuron contains three important parts: a cell body that directs all activities of the neuron; dendrites (the part that looks
like tree branches), which are short fibers that receive messages from other neurons and relay those messages to the cell body; and
the axon, a long single fiber that transmits messages from the cell body to dendrites of other neurons. Every moment, messages
traverse entire neural networks with amazing speed. As a matter of fact, scientists often compare the activity of neurons to the way
electricity works.
A neuron communicates with other neurons at special places called synapses or synaptic clefts. To send a message, a neuron releases
a chemical messenger, or neurotransmitter, into the synaptic cleft. From there, the neurotransmitter crosses the synapse and attaches
to key sites called receptors on the receiving neuron. When neurotransmitters attach to these receptors, they cause changes inside
the receiving neuron and the message is delivered.
Neurons communicate with each other within a network of interconnected cells that scientists are still trying to fully understand.
Scientists do know that this complex communication system within the brain can be disrupted by the chemicals in drugs. Did you
know that more than 400 chemicals are in a marijuana leaf? And over 4,000 chemicals besides nicotine are in tobacco!
5. Slide 4: The brain is your body’s “Command Central”
Your brain controls more than the way you think. The brain controls our physical sensations and body movements. How we
understand what we see, hear, smell, taste, and touch. Our sense of balance and coordination. Memory. Feelings of pleasure
and reward. The ability to make judgments. When we catch a football, dance, jog, speak, sing, laugh, whistle, smile, cry—
that’s our brain receiving, processing, and sending out messages to different parts of our body.
When we feel good for whatever reason—laughing with a friend or seeing a good movie or eating our favorite ice cream—
the brain’s reward system is activated. As we said before, the reward system is the part of the brain that makes you feel good. The reward system is a collection of
neurons that release dopamine, a neurotransmitter. When dopamine is released by these neurons, a person feels pleasure.
Scientists have linked dopamine to most drugs of abuse—cocaine, marijuana, heroin, alcohol, and nicotine. These drugs all
activate the reward system and cause neurons to release large damaging amounts of dopamine. Over time, drugs change this
part of the brain. As a result, things that used to make you feel good—like eating ice cream, skateboarding, or getting a
hug—no longer feel as good.
6. Slide 5: Control centers in the brain are affected by drug use
Drugs of abuse disable or disrupt important brain functions.
When someone smokes marijuana, for example, the chemical THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the main
psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, travels quickly to the brain. We can see the areas of the brain (in purple) where
THC concentrates. Let’s go back to the previous slide and see the areas of the brain that are affected by THC.
[Presenter: Please return to the previous slide and point out these areas.]
You can see that THC builds up in areas that control the body’s movements, balance, coordination, memory and
judgment, and sensations. THC disrupts your brain’s ability to control these activities as well as you could normally.
7. Slide 6: A positron emission tomography (PET) scanner
Now let’s take a look inside your mind. One of the tools that scientists use to see the effects of drugs on the brain is called
positron emission tomography or a PET [say the word “pet”] scan. Similar to an x-ray, but much more sophisticated, a PET scan is
used to examine many different organs including the heart, liver, lungs, and bones, as well as the brain. A PET scan shows much
more than the physical structure of bone and tissue. A PET scan shows how well (or how little) an organ is functioning.
Using a PET scan, a doctor or a scientist can see what is actually happening in a person’s brain and see the effects of drugs. The
PET scan shows areas of the brain that are active and also areas that are inactive or not functioning at all. Typically, a PET scan
takes 1 to 2 hours with the person lying completely still so that the PET images will be clear.
Let’s see how a drug like cocaine interacts with the brain.
8. Slide 7: This is literally the brain on drugs
When someone gets “high” on cocaine, where does the cocaine go in the brain? With the help
of a radioactive tracer, this PET scan shows us a person’s brain on cocaine and the area of the brain,
highlighted in yellow, where cocaine is “binding” or attaching itself. This PET scan shows us minute by
minute, in a time-lapsed sequence, just how quickly cocaine begins affecting a particular area of the
brain.
We start in the upper left hand corner. You can see that 1 minute after cocaine is administered to
this subject nothing much happens. All areas of the brain are functioning normally. But after 3 to 4
minutes [the next scan to the right], we see some areas starting to turn yellow. These areas are part
of a brain structure called the striatum [stry-a-tum] that is the main target in the brain bound and
activated by cocaine.
At the 5- to 8-minute interval, we see that cocaine is affecting a large area of the brain. After that, the
drug’s effects begin to wear off. At the 9- to 10-minute point, the high feeling is almost gone. Unless the
abuser takes more cocaine, the experience is over in about 20 to 30 minutes.
Scientists are doing research to find out if the striatum produces the “high” feeling and controls our
feelings of pleasure and motivation. One of the reasons scientists are curious about specific areas of the
brain affected by drugs, such as cocaine, is to develop treatments for people who become addicted to
these drugs. Scientists hope to find the most effective way to change an addicted brain back to normal
functioning.
9. Slide 8: Long-term effects of drug abuse
The images in these PET scans, which depict brain glucose utilization (a marker of brain activity), show that once the brain becomes addicted
to a drug like cocaine, it is affected for a long, long time. In other words, once addicted, the brain is literally changed. Let’s see how.
In this slide, increasing amounts of brain function are measured by yellow or red. The top row shows a normal functioning brain without drugs.
You can see a lot of brain activity. In other words, there is a lot of yellow and red color.
The middle row shows a cocaine addict’s brain after 10 days without any cocaine use at all. What is happening here? [Pause for response.] Less
yellow and red means less normal activity occurring in the brain—even after the cocaine abuser has abstained from the drug for 10 days.
The third row shows the same addict’s brain after 100 days without any cocaine. We can see a little more yellow and red, so there is some
improvement— more brain activity—at this point. But the addict’s brain is still not back to a normal level of functioning. . . more than 3 months
later. Scientists are concerned that there may be areas in the brain that never fully recover from drug abuse and addiction.
10. Slide 9: Drugs have long-term consequences
Here is another example of what science has shown us about the long-term effects of drugs.
What this PET scan shows us is how just 10 days of drug use can produce very dramatic and long
term changes in the brain activity of a monkey. The drug used in this experiment was
amphetamine, or what some people call “speed.” Remember the previous slide showed us what
the brain of a chronic cocaine abuser looks like. This slide shows us what using a drug like
amphetamine can do, in only 10 days, to the brain of a monkey.
This slide also gives us a better idea of what methamphetamine, a drug similar in structure, can do
to the brain. Methamphetamine use is becoming increasingly popular in certain areas of the
country.
The top row shows us, in yellow and red, normal brain activity. The second row shows us that same
brain 4 weeks after being given amphetamine for 10 days. There is a dramatic decrease in brain
activity. This decreased brain activity continues for up to 1 year after amphetamine use. These
continuous brain changes often trigger other changes in social and emotional behavior too,
including a possible increase in aggressiveness, feelings of isolation, and depression.
11. Slide 10: The memory of drugs
This slide demonstrates something really amazing—how just the mention of items associated with drug use may
cause an addict to crave or desire drugs. This PET scan is part of a scientific study that compared recovering addicts,
who had stopped using cocaine, with people who had no history of cocaine use. The study hoped to determine what
parts of the brain are activated when drugs are craved.
For this study, brain scans were performed while subjects watched two videos. The first video, a nondrug
presentation, showed nature images—mountains, rivers, animals, flowers, trees. The second video showed cocaine
and drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, needles, matches, and other items familiar to addicts.
This is how the memory of drugs works: The yellow area on the upper part of the second image is the amygdala (a-
mig-duh-luh), a part of the brain’s limbic system, which is critical for memory and responsible for evoking emotions.
For an addict, when a drug craving occurs, the amygdala becomes active and a craving for cocaine is triggered.
So if it’s the middle of the night, raining, snowing, it doesn’t matter. This craving demands the drug immediately.
Rational thoughts are dismissed by the uncontrollable desire for drugs. At this point, a basic change has occurred in
the brain. The person is no longer in control. This changed brain makes it almost impossible for drug addicts to stay
drug-free without professional help. Because addiction is a brain disease.
12. Slide 11: A message to remember
We discussed many important points today. There are two points in particular that I hope you remember [point to slide].
Another point to remember is that drug abuse and addiction affect every segment of society. That’s all of us. Everyone. Not
one person is immune against the disease
of addiction.
These slides today demonstrate that there are observable changes in brain function that take place when drugs are used.
We saw that the brains of addicts are different from the brains of people who are not addicted. And it is difficult—in some
cases, perhaps even impossible—to return the brain to normal. Scientists, like those who work at the National Institute on
Drug Abuse, are working to develop treatments to help people who are addicted to drugs. But treatment, like addiction, is a
complex issue.
13. Slide 12: Is it worth the risk?
What percentage of people who experiment with drugs will become addicted? [Pause for responses.] Right now, science
doesn’t have the answer to that question. The effects of drugs on the brain are still being studied and explored.
And when we talk about drugs, we are not just talking about cocaine and marijuana and amphetamines and inhalants. Nicotine is
highly addictive too, and, for many people, so is alcohol. Forget the stereotype of a drug addict hanging out on a dangerous
street corner. Anyone can get hooked on drugs—your friends, members of your family, your neighbors.
Trying a drug just because a friend says it’s “cool,” might cost you much more than you bargained for. So every person in this
room has to decide for themselves: is it worth the risk?
The good news is: help is available.
14. Slide 13: Visit New Life Foundations official site
: https://www.newlifefoundation.com/th/
We’ve covered a lot of ground today. By now everyone here should have an idea of
what drugs do to our brain, but the information we shared today is just a beginning.
There’s much more to discover about how the brain works. Take some time on your own
to learn about this subject. The Internet is an excellent place to start.
To learn more, check out New Life Foundations home page on the World Wide Web
and see what you can find out about the latest discoveries about the brain and how it
responds to drugs.
For scientists, the brain is mostly unchartered territory like the surface of Mars for the
Pathfinder expedition. It is my hope that some of you will become scientists interested
in how the brain works, so that you might help us understand more about addiction and
help us solve this problem.
15. Slide 14: Have you changed your mind?
Here is our last slide. As we look at side-by-side PET scans of a person who has never
used cocaine compared with a cocaine addict, can you tell which brain is more active and
healthy? Take a guess. Yes, the brain on the left with an abundance of red is the healthy,
active brain.
With a little bit of knowledge about what drug addiction actually is, anyone—not just
neuroscientists and neurobiologists—can see the changes in brain activity caused by drug
abuse and addiction. The PET scans we’ve looked at today prove that.
We’ve seen the scientific facts. We’ve learned that addiction is a brain disease. And
we’ve also learned that scientists are making great strides in developing treatments for
addiction. There will be no magic charm to make addiction go away. But educated and
informed with the scientific facts about what drugs can do to the brain, we are each in a
better position to decide whether or not to take drugs in the first place. Given the facts,
have you changed your mind?