Debra Jay takes you inside the addicted brain for an up-close look at the neurobiology of addiction. Addiction has been recognized as a disease since 1877, and it has been recognized as a disease by the American Medical Association since 1955.

Addiction is not a learned behavior, or simply a way of medicating unpleasant feelings. People may use chemicals to change the way they feel, but when a person becomes an alcoholic or addict, the situation changes drastically. 

A person suffering from addiction will experience repeated, serious negative consequences as a result of using chemicals, but will continue to use chemicals regardless. This seemingly irrational behavior in an otherwise rational person often frustrates and confuses friends and family (Why doesn't she learn?), but Debra Jay explains why the addicted brain is different.