This book serves as a comprehensive reference text for the foundational principles related to substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. It offers a comprehensive overview of addictions, covering various aspects from the biological and psychological mechanisms to treatment approaches and societal implications. Many existing resources focus narrowly on specific aspects of addiction, such as the neurobiology or social aspects. This text bridges these gaps by integrating diverse perspectives and encouraging a multidisciplinary understanding. Additionally, the inclusion of emerging trends ensures that readers are equipped with the latest information, making this book an asset in an evolving field. By providing a consolidated and accessible resource, this reference book aims to contribute to improved education, research, and ultimately, more effective interventions for individuals grappling with substance use disorders.

The book is organized into several sections, each addressing an important aspect of substance use disorders. It opens with the mechanism of addiction’s onset (Understanding Substance Use Disorders), progresses to the clinical approach (Assessment and Diagnosis, Pharmacological Interventions, and Psychosocial Interventions) and ends with strategies for prevention and advocacy on a societal level (Prevention and Public Health).

Substance Use Disorders and Behavioral Addictions: A Comprehensive Guide provides a thorough and up-to-date resource for healthcare professionals and clinicians working with people with addictions, medical residents and students, researchers, and individuals seeking a deeper understanding of addictions.

Jonathan Avery, M.D.

New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell

Vice Chair for Addiction Psychiatry

Stephen P. Tobin and Dr. Arnold M. Cooper Associate Professor in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry

Jonathan Avery, M.D. is the Vice Chair for Addiction Psychiatry, the Stephen P. Tobin and Dr. Arnold M. Cooper Associate Professor in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and the Program Director for the Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship. Dr. Avery’s primary academic focus has been to examine and help develop interventions to improve clinicians’ attitudes towards patients with substance use disorders. He is also focused on educating all physicians on how to treat individuals with co-occurring substance use disorders and mental illness.

Evguenia Makovkina, M.D.

New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell

Adult Psychiatry Resident

Evguenia Makovkina, M.D. is a fourth-year resident training in Adult Psychiatry at New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell. She will start fellowship training in Addiction Psychiatry at Weill Cornell in July 2023. She is interested in long-term treatment models for addictions and initiatives that make substance use disorder care more widely accessible. She is focused on treating people with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental illness with pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy.