Key Terms

To help you better understand addiction and its terminology, take a few moments to review these key terms you’ll find throughout the course.

Addiction / Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

A complex, chronic disorder where a person compulsively uses substances despite harmful consequences to their health and life.

The understanding that addiction is a brain disorder that changes circuits related to reward, stress, and self-control.

The part of the brain responsible for pleasure and reward; drugs overstimulate this area, reinforcing substance use.

The brain region involved in stress and negative emotions; becomes more sensitive during withdrawal.

The part of the brain responsible for decision-making and impulse control; weakened by addiction.

A repeating pattern of addiction with three stages:

Binge/Intoxication

Negative Affect/Withdrawal

Preoccupation/Anticipation

A planned process where loved ones encourage a person to seek treatment for their addiction.

Treatment methods that help individuals change behaviors, manage triggers, and cope with stress.

A treatment approach that supports both the individual and their family, especially children, to improve overall well-being.