(Neuro)therapeutic Approaches in the Field of Alcohol Use Disorders

Abstract

Purpose of Review: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a burdening chronic condition that is characterized by high relapse rates despite severe negative consequences. There has been a recent emergence of interest in (neuro)therapeutic intervention strategies that largely involve the detrimental change in mechanisms linked to addiction disorders. Most prominently, the latter include habitual decision-making, cue-induced behavioral tendencies, as well as the amplifying effects of stressful events on drinking behavior. This article discusses these learning mechanisms and modification thereof as possible targets of (neuro)therapeutic interventions for AUD.

Recent Findings: Psychological therapies that target dysregulated neurocognitive processes underlying addictive behavior may hold promise as effective treatments for AUD.

Summary: Despite the progression in psychological and neuroscience research in the field of AUD, many behavioral interventions fail to systematically integrate and apply such findings into treatment development. Future research should focus on the targeted modification of the aforementioned processes.