As we are learning about the brain structure and function and the incredibly intricate Neural System, you will start develop an understanding of the Biological basis of behavior (think Neurotransmitters function and malfunction). What this means is that as we begin to understand how our brains work, we can make connections to our behaviors, emotions and moods.

There remains controversy with the use of Psychoactive medications (psychoactive means anything that changes our brain chemistry - even caffeine and nicotine are psychoactive substances). Some believe that prescribing medications for Psychological Disorders (ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, OCD etc.) is not an effective avenue for change and supports Big Pharma (all the pharmaceutical companies that make BILLIONS of dollars producing medications), while others swear by the results and have experienced positive improvements. Both are correct. Sometimes medication is not the best intervention; and sometimes it is life saving. Many times it is overused and/or misused; or even improperly prescribed. It is expensive, difficult to obtain and maintain and riddled with unpleasant side effects. Yet it remains the biggest industry in the world with many millions of people depending on their psychoactive medication to provide some relief and improve their quality of life. How do you reconcile these stark differences? Does the benefit outweigh the risks? Is good better than the bad?

some prompts to consider:

• What are your thoughts on the use of medications to treat Psychological Disorders? Don't worry if you don't have a lot knowledge or experience; you can ask others in your group or use the internet for some independent research.
• If you don't agree with use of medication, can you suggest another treatment option?
• Do you know of any situations where medication use has resulted in positive change for someone (you or someone you know? share as much or little as you're comfortable with)
• Are there situations where medication has been misused? Does not seem to be working? Negative side effects?

• Critical Thinking question: are emotions and moods the same? Is it Nature or Nurture that influences mood change? If you've ever experienced a mood change as a result of your environment (where you are and/or people you're around) then we could surmise that mood changes are a result of Nurture, right? (Personally, sometimes people around me can impact my mood, or where I am can as well - like a crowded grocery store can quickly put me in a bad mood!) Then how would we address emotion and mood changes from a Biological perspective (Nature)? If medication is an effective treatment intervention, and that is a purely biological intervention, then how do we believe at the same time that mood changes are a result of our environment (Nurture). If you are scratching your head right now, then you're in good company. It's a circular debate and I'd like your opinion on it as a group discussion.