The Neuroscience of Addiction

This evidence-based workshop reframes addiction as a learned state of brain and body, not a character flaw or weakness. Neuroscientist Faissal Sharif breaks down how the brain’s reward system, stress, habits and decision making processes interact to drive craving and make addictive behaviours more difficult to break. We’ll look beyond alcohol and nicotine and also explore why cocaine, social media, and gambling can be so hard to resist.

You'll leave with a clearer understanding as to why addiction develops, why it impacts people differently, and how factors such as brain biology, learning, and environment play a role. You’ll also gain some practical, realistic strategies for reducing harm, managing cravings, and building more reliable sources of reward and wellbeing.

​Workshop Highlights:

• Learn why addiction is a learning problem, not a moral failing
• Unpack dopamine, differences in rewards received versus rewards predicted, and habit cycles
• Understand how stress and our brain’s management system shape craving and relapse
• Gain evidence-based tools for cue management, “craving surfing”, and habit redesign

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Speaker Bio:

Faissal Sharif is a neuroscientist and journalist whose work sits at the intersection of brain health, neurotechnology, and society. Based at the University of Oxford, he investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying psychiatric symptoms and explores the potential of emerging non-invasive neurotechnologies to advance mental health treatment. His work spans neuroscience, global health, and international development, with experience across the United Nations Development Programme and the World Health Organization. In these roles, he has contributed to evidence-informed policy, health equity, and social protection initiatives, particularly in fragile and resource-constrained settings. 

This workshop is 18+ 

Testimonials from our guests

⭐ Truly riveting talks, always enjoy these - a great way to spend an evening with some pals. Already looking forward to the next one. - Alexander P 

⭐ Expertly run, talks are always super informative and a lot of fun! Couldn’t recommend these enough! 5 star. - Owen S

⭐ Been to a few talks and all have been super interesting. An enjoyable evening to go to either alone or with friends. The talks make for stimulating conversation. Highly recommend! - Daisy J​