The Science of Addiction: From Neurobiology to Treatment - Tapa dura

"Any collection strong in health science needs this." -- The Bookwatch "I recommend this excellent book as a `must-read' for any medical student, physician, or other allied health professional dedicated to the care of their patients with the treatable disease of addiction." -- Journal of the American Medical Association "Erickson clearly has done his homework. [It] is a welcome contribution to the field as a result of his diligence." -- Bruce Ripley - Counselor "Recommended unreservedly....It is easy to read, informative and comprehensive." -- Falk Kiefer - Addicition

Neuroscience is clarifying the causes of compulsive alcohol and drug use--while also shedding light on what addiction is, what it is not, and how it can best be treated--in exciting and innovative ways. Current neurobiological research complements and enhances the approaches to addiction traditionally taken in social work and psychology. However, this important research is generally not presented in a forthright, jargon-free way that clearly illustrates its relevance to addiction professionals. The Science of Addiction presents a comprehensive overview of the roles that brain function and genetics play in addiction. It explains in an easy-to-understand way changes in the terminology and characterization of addiction that are emerging based upon new neurobiological research. The author goes on to describe the neuroanatomy and function of brain reward sites, and the genetics of alcohol and other drug dependence. Chapters on the basic pharmacology of stimulants and depressants, alcohol, and other drugs illustrate the specific and unique ways in which the brain and the central nervous system interact with, and are affected by, each of these substances Erickson discusses current and emerging treatments for chemical dependence, and how neuroscience helps us understand the way they work. The intent is to encourage an understanding of the body-mind connection. The busy clinical practitioner will find the chapter on how to read and interpret new research findings on the neurobiological basis of addiction useful and illuminating. This book will help the almost 21.6 million Americans, and millions more worldwide, who abuse or are dependent on drugs by teaching their caregivers (or them) about the latest addiction science research. It is also intended to help addiction professionals understand the foundations and applications of neuroscience, so that they will be able to better empathize with their patients and apply the science to principles of treatment.