UTC 1: Introduction to the Science of Addiction

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Define key concepts, including substance use disorders, physiological dependence and addiction.
2. Explain how psychoactive substances affect brain function and contribute to the development of addiction.
3. Describe the main classes of psychoactive substances, their short- and long-term effects, and their consequences for individuals, families and communities.
4. Explain how stigma affects people with substance use disorders and identify strategies to reduce it in professional practice.

This course is primarily intended for:

• Addiction counsellors and treatment practitioners building foundational knowledge of addiction.
• Health and mental health professionals, including nurses, doctors and psychologists, beginning work in substance use services.
• Social workers and community support workers supporting people with substance use disorders and their families.
• Supervisors and team leaders supporting staff who are new to the treatment field.
• Early career professionals seeking to learn more about the treatment of substance use disorders.