About Addiction Science
Many people don't understand why or how other people become addicted to drugs. They may mistakenly think that those who use drugs lack moral principles or willpower and that they could stop their drug use simply by choosing to. In reality, drug addiction is a complex disease, and quitting usually takes more than good intentions or a strong will. Drugs change the brain in ways that make quitting hard, even for those who want to. Fortunately, researchers have found treatments that can help people recover from drug addiction and lead productive lives. Read the DrugFacts
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Related Resources
- Easy-to-Read Drug Facts, What is an Addiction? - Has pictures and videos to help readers understand the text. The website also can read each page out loud.
- NIH Director’s Blog on Addiction Science
- “Brain disease model of addiction: why is it so controversial? - Read this article published in The Lancet Psychiatry by NIDA Director Dr. Nora Volkow and NIAAA Director Dr. George Koob. (October 2015)
- Nature Outlook: Addiction, a special supplement co-sponsored by NIDA and NIAAA. (June 2015)
- Keeping Youth Drug Free (SAMHSA)
- Mental Health and Addiction Insurance Help (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)
- Video: "Adolescent Substance Use, Addiction, and Treatment" with Sarah Bagley, M.D. (Office of Adolescent Health)
Other Resources
- MEDLINEplus Health Information on Drug Abuse (National Library of Medicine, NIH)
- Healthfinder.gov (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies in human volunteers conducted to answer specific health questions. Learn about the NIH-sponsored clinical trials available to you.
- NIDA Clinical Trial Locator - answer a few simple questions and get contact information for Clinical Trials near you.