Brain Anatomy
What part of the brain controls basic functions like breathing and heart rate?
The Brain Stem
What chemical in the brain is known as the “feel good” neurotransmitter?
Dopamine
Which neurotransmitter is most associated with happiness and well-being?
Serotonin
What does “MAT” stand for?
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Part of the brain called the “emotional brain”
Limbic system
What part of the brain is responsible for decision-making and impulse control?
The prefrontal cortex
What is the term for needing more of a substance to get the same effect?
Tolerance
Low levels of which neurotransmitter can lead to depression or low energy?
Dopamine or serotonin
Name one medication used in MAT for opioid use disorder.
Buprenorphine (Suboxone), or Naltrexone (Vivitrol), Sublocade
Part of the brain called the “thinking brain”
Cortex / Prefrontal cortex
What part of the brain regulates hunger, sleep, hormones, and stress
The hypothalamus
Addiction hijacks which brain system that normally motivates survival behaviors?
The reward system
What happens to mood when dopamine and serotonin levels drop due to substance use?
People may feel sad, anxious, or unmotivated
What is one main goal of MAT?
To reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms so recovery can begin
MAT primarily works here to reduce cravings and stabilize mood
Limbic system
What part of the brain stores new memories and connects emotion to them
Hippocampus
True or False: Once the brain changes from addiction, recovery is impossible.
False — the brain can heal with time and treatment.
What is the “crash” after drug use often caused by?
Depleted neurotransmitters or dopamine drop
What is harm reduction?
Reducing the harm associated with using drugs through a variety of public health interventions.
When the limbic system is stabilized, this brain area can regain control
Prefrontal cortex
Which brain region helps coordinate movement and balance?
The cerebellum
Which part of the brain is called the brain’s “reward center”?
The nucleus accumbens
What part of the brain regulates emotions like fear and anger?
The amygdala
Give two examples of harm reduction tools.
Three main limbic areas affected by addiction and MAT
Amygdala, nucleus accumbens, hypothalamus