Brain changes in addiction | Professor Alexander Baldacchino | TEDxUniversityofStAndrews

Excessive and chronic rewards trigger dopamine floods and replace natural rewards. This ''high jacking" of the reward circuit leads to interesting changes in motivation that will change how individuals prioritise everyday tasks, value relationships and their expectations of their immediate environments. What is the difference between a negative and a positive addiction? When does instant gratification and memory impairments become problematic? This TED x talk will explore some of these issues and help normalise the notion that addicted individuals were morally weak and/or genetically predisposed to become dependent on psychoactive substances. Professor Baldacchino holds a variety of esteemed positions including Chair of the World Psychiatric Association (WPA) Addiction Faculty, Scientific Advisor for the European Union Drug Agency (EUDA) and World Health organisation (WHO). His main research interest lies in improving the lives of individuals with a history of substance use disorders and addictive behaviours. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx