This course helps you understand addiction in a clear, compassionate, and practical way. We'll look at how addiction affects the brain and behavior, what roles genetics, mental health, stress, and trauma can play, and how family, culture, and community shape the experience. You'll learn about different paths to recovery -such as counseling, medication, and 12-Step or faith-based programs - and how to support someone healing without burning out yourself. Through stories, discussion, and simple hands-on activities, you'll come away with real tools for prevention, hope, and positive change.