Üsküdar Üniversitesi Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences organized a faculty seminar titled 'Addiction as a Brain Disease.' Prof. Dr. Cemal Onur Noyan participated in the online seminar. Noyan pointed out that adolescence is a period open to risky behaviors, stating that protection is possible when the balance between fear and curiosity is managed correctly. Noyan emphasized that early awareness and conscious intervention play a critical role in the fight against addiction, also underlining that individuals who cannot say no are more susceptible to addiction.
The event aimed to contribute to individual and societal awareness by increasing understanding of addiction.
Adolescence is a period open to risky behaviors!
At the event, which addressed the individual and societal dimensions of addiction, Prof. Dr. Cemal Onur Noyan provided scientific evaluations on the biological and psychological foundations of the addiction process. Noyan emphasized that adolescence is a period open to risky behaviors, stating the importance of setting clear boundaries during this time. Noyan noted that the brain can become more susceptible to addiction while striving for liberation.
Everyone has the potential to become addicted…
Noyan underlined that addiction is not limited to certain individuals, stating that scientific studies show everyone has the potential to become addicted. Noting that technology addiction is one of the most common examples of this, Noyan conveyed that addiction can manifest in many different areas such as food, gambling, shopping, and substance use. He also pointed out that behavioral addictions are becoming increasingly prevalent today.
Protection is possible if the balance between fear and curiosity is managed correctly!
Evaluating the process of addiction formation, Noyan stated that there is a balance between fear and curiosity during adolescence, and that individuals can be protected if this balance is managed correctly. Prof. Dr. Cemal Onur Noyan emphasized that addiction usually begins voluntarily and can eventually reach a point where the person cannot control it due to biological changes. In this context, he also stated that the idea of 'nothing happens from just once' is misleading, as addiction can gradually slip from an individual's control and become a controlling factor.
Individuals Unable to Say No Are More Prone to Addiction!
Noyan noted that the social environment is also a decisive factor in the development of addiction, emphasizing that individuals who cannot say no may be more susceptible to addiction. He stated that some individuals may turn to substance use to appear different, to be the person they dream of, to have fun, or to gain popularity in their social circle.
Early Awareness and Conscious Intervention Play a Critical Role
Prof. Dr. Cemal Onur Noyan emphasized that substance use alters the brain's structure and function, disrupting its reward mechanism, and stated that addiction is a brain disease but is preventable. Noyan highlighted that early awareness and conscious intervention play a critical role in combating addiction.
The event concluded after questions from participants were answered.