Exploring the Neurobiological Foundations of Substance Use Disorders
Guest Speaker: Dr. Muhammad Parvaz
In this episode titled “Exploring the Neurobiological Foundations in Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders”, we focus on the neurobiology of substance misuse with Dr. Muhammad Parvaz.
The episode begins with Dr. Parvaz explaining how the adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to substance misuse, addressing nature vs. nurture. Dr. Parvaz also discusses the importance of brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex, a region critical for decision-making, impulse control, and regulating behaviour. He explains how the underdevelopment of the prefrontal cortex during adolescence can contribute to impulsive behaviours, making young people more susceptible to risky choices like substance misuse.
The conversation then moves towards defining craving, which is often difficult due to its subjective nature. We touch on the current challenges in research around craving and what is being done to combat this by developing more effective paradigms.
Dr. Parvaz emphasises the need to treat substance use disorders as brain diseases, and how doing so allows for science-based interventions that address the neurobiological aspects of substance misuse. He also advocates for more inclusive research, particularly addressing the underrepresentation of women in studies and treatment.
Listen now on Spotify.
Resources:
Activation of reward areas in people with heroin use during cue reactivity studies
Effects of treatment for substance (mis)use
Guest Social Media:
Having trouble accessing any of the papers? Contact us at cravingclaritygroup@gmail.com, and we will be happy to provide it for you!