The Science of Pain and Addiction: The Brain at Play
Discover how pain and addiction shape the brain—and how to break the cycle. Join us for this insightful webinar!
Description
Why is addiction so powerful? How does pain influence our brain’s reward system? Understanding the science behind pain and addiction can change the way we view substance use, behavioral addiction, and recovery.
Join us for this eye-opening webinar as we break down how the brain’s reward system works, why substances like alcohol and opioids are so hard to quit, and how pain avoidance fuels addictive behaviors—including gambling, technology, and food addiction.
What You’ll Learn:
- Key terms explained – Understand tolerance, dependence, withdrawal, and why addiction isn’t just about cravings.
- How addiction rewires the brain – Discover the neurological changes that make quitting so difficult.
- Pain and addiction’s connection – Learn how pain avoidance can drive addictive behaviors.
- Practical strategies – Gain science-backed tools for managing pain and breaking the cycle of addiction.
This webinar isn’t just about learning—it’s about changing the conversation around addiction. Addiction isn’t a choice or a moral failing; it’s a biological process. By understanding the science, we can better support ourselves and those around us.
Why Attend?
- Gain a science-based understanding of addiction and pain.
- Discover practical strategies for managing pain without substances.
- Learn how to break the cycle and take the first step toward healing.
Disclaimer: The content of this presentation is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice.
Important Note:
We encourage active participation in this workshop, which involves interactive elements such as polls, word clouds, and multiple-choice questions and the ability to submit questions to the presenters. To ensure a safe and confidential space, we want to highlight that you will have the option to interact with us anonymously using the interactive platform Slido.
Your privacy and comfort are of utmost importance, and we want to create an environment where everyone feels free to engage openly. If you have any concerns or questions about anonymity or the interactive features, please feel free to reach out to the ICBA Training Team at training@icba.ca
Delivery Method: Virtual Session – Zoom Webinar
Course Fee Includes: Access to the course, course materials, and upon completion a digital certificate if requested.
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course.
Who Should Attend
This session is designed for anyone but particularly those in the construction industry who want to better understand addiction, pain management, and mental health, including:
- Supervisors & Managers – Learn how to recognize signs of addiction and support workers effectively.
- Safety & HR Professionals – Gain insights into addiction’s impact on workplace safety and performance.
- Tradespeople & Frontline Workers – Understand how pain and stress can lead to addiction and discover healthier coping strategies.
- Wellness & Mental Health Advocates – Explore science-backed approaches to fostering a supportive, addiction-aware workplace.
Addiction affects individuals, teams, and overall job site safety. By recognizing the science behind it, we can build a stronger, healthier workforce.
Technical Requirements
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Computer or laptop
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This course will involve on-screen interaction with your instructor and classmates, reading/viewing on-screen content (slides or videos), and interacting via typing with questions or responses. For this reason, cell phones may not be adequate.
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Windows 10 or Mac iOS
2. Internet connection - For best results, you will want to ensure you have an internet connection with an upload/download speed of 3-5 Mbps. You can test your internet speed here. The minimum recommended speed is 1.5 Mbps, but anything below 3 Mbps may result in loss of quality or buffering. Ideally hardwired connection versus wireless for stability - connect your computer directly to your router using an ethernet cable, rather than using your home wi-fi.
3. A quiet space with minimal distractions - Please plan to be fully engaged in the class and clear your work schedule just as you would for the in-class program.
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Comfortable chair