Addictive Disorders and Substance Use Disorders 

Addictive behaviors are repetitive actions or engagement in substances, often associated with the pursuit of pleasure or relief, that become difficult to control, despite negative consequences. Addictive behaviors often lead to changes in the brain's reward system, with repeated exposure leading to tolerance and increased cravings. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, plays a crucial role in the development of addictive patterns. Addiction involves the struggle between acting on or challenging that impulse and it can have a negative impact on physical and mental health, relationships, work, and overall functioning. Underlying psychological factors, such as stress, trauma, or mental health disorders, can contribute to it.

Addictive Disorders comprise of substance-use disorders (ie. drugs or alcohol) or non-substance use disorders (ie. gambling or gaming). The “object” of addiction is less significant than the function of the behavior. Substance use disorders involve the misuse of substances such as drugs or alcohol, leading to physical and psychological dependence. Substance abuse can have severe health consequences and often requires professional intervention for treatment. Like substance addictions, behavioral addictions involve a lack of control in relation to an object/activity and result in negative consequences. Examples of behavioral addictions include gambling, gaming, pornography, shopping and eating. 

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) incorporates the use of certain medications in combination with cognitive behavioral therapies. Some modalities that have proven to be effective in the treatment of addiction include Motivational interviewing, 12-step facilitation therapy, and SMART Recovery. The treatment provided is stigma-free and self-empowering.