Dr. Nora Volkow on Transforming Addiction Treatment and Tackling Stigma
Whether it is for prevention or to ensure that people achieve recovery, we need to address those adverse social and economic factors and, by the way, they are not just unique for a substance use disorder.
Ever wondered what the future of addiction treatment looks like? In this episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Roneet Lev chats with Dr. Nora Volkow, the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Dr. Volkow, a pioneer in using brain imaging to study addiction, shares her groundbreaking insights on how substance use impacts the brain's reward and self-control systems.
She doesn’t just stop there; she dives into the pressing issues surrounding addiction, including the opioid crisis, the role of marijuana, and the importance of addressing social and economic factors to promote recovery. Dr. Volkow's discussion spans a wide array of topics that are crucial for anyone interested in understanding addiction better. From the need for high-quality, evidence-based treatments to the potential benefits of decriminalization and reducing stigma, this episode is packed with valuable information.
She also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on drug treatment innovations and highlights the necessity for increased funding in pain research. This conversation is not just for those in the medical field but for anyone affected by addiction, whether personally or through a loved one. Dr. Volkow’s expertise and passion make this episode a must-listen for those seeking to understand the complexities of addiction and recovery.
Tune in to gain a deeper appreciation of the challenges and advancements in this critical area of health.