What causes addiction, and why is it so hard to treat? - Judy Grisel

TED-Ed

This animated educational video explores the biological and psychological mechanisms behind substance abuse disorder and addiction. It delves into neuroscience concepts such as tolerance, dependence, and the role of the brain's reward system, specifically how dopamine and the nucleus accumbens are hijacked by addictive substances. The video also explains the chemical differences between various drugs and why some methods of delivery (like smoking versus patches) are more addictive than others. Key themes include the brain's adaptability (neuroplasticity) in response to drugs, the distinction between the cortex (decision-making) and subcortex (impulse/habit), and the factors that influence susceptibility, including genetics, trauma, and age of first use. It emphasizes that addiction is not merely a choice but a complex physiological response where the brain recalibrates to function with the substance present. For educators, this video serves as a powerful tool for health and biology curriculums. It moves the conversation about drugs away from simple "just say no" rhetoric toward a scientific understanding of how chemical substances physically alter brain function and behavior. It provides a biological basis for empathy towards those struggling with addiction and offers a strong foundation for discussions about mental health, risk factors, and the science of recovery.