From basic research to public health policy: WHO report on the neuroscience of substance dependence

The World Health Organization (WHO) report on the Neuroscience of Psychoactive Substance Use and Dependence represents a summary of the latest scientific knowledge on the role of the brain in substance dependence. The findings of the report have important applications to both interventions and public health policy. Specifically, the report notes that psychoactive substances have physical and symbolic effects that are rewarding to the user. It notes that adverse consequences of psychoactive substance use are related to the level, pattern, mode, and context of use. Dependence is seen as a complex disorder involving brain mechanisms rather than a failure of will. The report notes that psychoactive substance use often coexists with other mental health problems, and that stigma associated with substance misuse inhibits treatment seeking. There is growing evidence for the efficacy and effectiveness of interventions, including advances in pharmacotherapy. However, these advances raise ethical issues that need to be addressed.