Explore the science behind alcohol use disorder in this engaging presentation by Dr. David McCartney, expert addiction doctor. Learn how alcohol affects the brain, alters dopamine reward pathways, and drives dependence, withdrawal, and relapse. Discover the impact of trauma, genetics, and stress on compulsive drinking, and why treatment, mutual aid (including AA), and psychosocial support offer hope for recovery. [28 minutes]

Dr David McCartney, originally a GP in Glasgow, has spent the latter half of his career as an addiction doctor. He founded and led the Lothians & Edinburgh Abstinence Programme (LEAP), a residential rehab service. He has held advisory roles with the Scottish Government and contributed to national alcohol and drug policy. David currently chairs the Residential Rehabilitation Working Group to improve rehab services across Scotland and is a Steering Group member for SHAAP.