Addiction occurs when someone has a compulsive desire to use a specific drug, such as alcohol, or perform a certain action, such as gamble. The desire is so powerful that it leads the person to neglect their own well-being and relationships. Addictions often take time to develop. For example, when a person regularly uses alcohol or drugs, the body begins to develop a tolerance. The person will need an increased amount of the substance to reach a pleasurable state. This begins a dangerous cycle. The individual will pursue higher doses, which results in damage to the body and brain. Drug or alcohol dependency can also have harmful effects on a person's relationships, as the addiction begins to negatively affect their behavior and decision-making.

What career opportunities can arise from learning about addiction?

Learning about addiction can help you prepare for a career as an addiction therapist or substance abuse counselor. On this career path, you'll work with people suffering from addictions as they seek recovery. Your responsibilities will include helping them develop and implement a plan to break the addiction cycle and then tracking their progress. Other jobs, such as detox specialist and addiction psychologist, will also require a clear and in-depth understanding of addiction.

What kind of people are best suited for roles in addiction counseling?

A career in addiction counseling might be ideal for you if you have a patient, compassionate, empathic, and firm personality. For many people, the road to addiction recovery comes with setbacks. When working with patients, you'll need to talk them through the feelings of guilt and frustration that come with relapses. You'll need to stay optimistic and practical about the recovery process.

How can online courses help me learn about addiction?

Online courses can introduce you to common psychological theories and practices surrounding addiction and addiction recovery. You'll learn about common addictions, how they affect the brain, and how clinical skills can help you treat patients. Courses may include readings, lectures, and assessments that you can access via the internet and work through at your own pace.

Top Addiction Courses - Learn Addiction Online

Imperial College London

Tobacco Control: Agile Policy, Research and Practice

Skills you'll gain: Research Methodologies, Research, Epidemiology, Health Care, Policy Analysis, General Science and Research, Public Policies, Policy Development, Advocacy, Program Evaluation

Alfaisal University | KLD

كيف تفوز في المحادثات الصعبة| How to Win Tough Conversations

Skills you'll gain: Interpersonal Communications, Conflict Management, Verbal Communication Skills, Tactfulness, Communication, Active Listening, Assertiveness, Emotional Intelligence, Strategic Communication

Alfaisal University | KLD

قائمة التدفقات النقدية | Cash Flow Statement

Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Financial Statement Analysis, Financial Analysis, Cash Flows, Income Statement, Financial Accounting, Financial Reporting, Balance Sheet, Accrual Accounting, Accounting

Status: Free

Yale University

استخدام الوسائط الرقمية لتعزيز النتائج الصحية

Skills you'll gain: Advertising Campaigns, Digital Communications, Behavioral Health, Program Evaluation, Persuasive Communication, Human Centered Design, Survey Creation, Data Collection, Psychology

University of Colorado System

Psychosocial and Spiritual Aspects of Palliative Care

Skills you'll gain: Hospice, Caregiving, Patient Education and Support, Care Coordination, Crisis Intervention, Interpersonal Communications, Mental Health, Stress Management, Social Work, Psychology

University of California, Irvine

Life 101: Mental and Physical Self-Care

Skills you'll gain: Stress Management, Personal Development, Emotional Intelligence, Self-Awareness, Personal Care, Resilience, Mental Health, Lifelong Learning, Preventative Care, Self-Motivation, Behavioral Health, Psychology, Environment and Resource Management, Food and Beverage, Decision Making