THE INFLUENCE OF STRESS ON THE TRANSITION FROM DRUG USE TO ADDICTION

Course overview

Stress¿that is, any type of stimulus that challenges the organism¿s normal internal balance¿induces a physiologic response involving a variety of hormones and other signaling molecules that act on, among other organs, the brain. This stress response also can influence the progression of alcohol and other drug (AOD) addiction through various stages. For example, AODs can directly activate the stress response. In turn, certain stress hormones also act on the brain system that mediates the rewarding experiences associated with AOD use.