Addiction, Emotion, And Decision-Making: a Behavioral Health Awareness Session

Dr. Arun B Nair, Professor of Psychiatry at Govt. Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, conducted an insightful awareness and counselling session exploring the intricacies of human behavior. He emphasized the physiological distinctions between humans and animals, highlighting the pivotal role of the prefrontal cortex in intelligence and decision-making. A key focus was on addiction and the role of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, in reinforcing behaviors and how addictive substances can hijack the brain’s reward system. Dr. Arun also examined psychological traits such as pessimism, fear and anxiety, and dominance and leadership, shedding light on their biological roots and social implications. His discussion underscored the importance of early mental health interventions and the power of counselling in addressing behavioral issues and addiction. The session served as a valuable platform for understanding the blend of psychological and biological factors influencing human actions, promoting self-awareness and mental health literacy among participants.