The Malta Chamber of Psychologists (MCP) organised its third forum on the theme of the Psychology of Addictions, as part of its series of fora on various topics. The event was open to both MCP members and the general public, and saw a striking turnout which demonstrated the interest in this subject amongst stakeholders.

The topic of addiction addresses a critical issue that impacts individuals, families, and communities alike. Addiction is often described as the inability to control doing, taking, or using something to a level that is harmful to an individual. In clinical terms, addiction is a progressive disorder that affects the brain's reward, motivation, and memory. It is characterised by an inability to control behaviour, and causes dysfunctional emotional responses.

Examples of addiction include substance addiction, such as alcohol, caffeine, cannabis, cocaine; as well as non-substance addiction, that is activities that a person indulges in, including gambling, shopping, gaming, and others - most of which were discussed during the MCP Forum.

A distinguished panel of experts shed light on various aspects of addiction, drawing from their extensive experience and unique perspectives. These included Dr Erika Galea, founder of the Educational Neuroscience Hub Europe, who has dedicated her career to enhancing understanding of brain development and its implications for education. Another speaker was Dr Matthew Berry, who has an extensive career in addiction services, working across voluntary, forensic, adult, and youth settings, as well as Dr Anna Maria Vella, a public health specialist and consultant in addiction medicine, with nearly three decades of experience at Sedqa's Substance Misuse Outpatients Unit.

The other speakers and panel members were Ms Anna Catania, a warranted counsellor and psychosexual and relationship therapist, who works with individuals and couples on relational and sexual issues, as well as Mr John Tabone, a counsellor and senior executive in player protection at the Malta Gaming Authority, responsible for driving responsible gaming initiatives.

Finally, Ms Stephanie Cascun, the coordinator for preventative services at Sedqa took part in the event, advocating for addiction prevention across educational and community sectors.
Following the respective presentations, an engaging discussion and Q&A with the panel took place. This was facilitated by Dr Chantal Avellino, who said that the goal of the forum was to explore the complexities of addiction, examine the latest insights in prevention, treatment, and education, and reflect on how we as a society can better address this widespread issue.

Dr Avellino said in conclusion: "Addiction is a multifaceted issue that affects not only individuals but also families, workplaces, and communities. Through forums like this, we aim to foster deeper understanding and collaboration, ensuring that prevention, treatment, and support continue to evolve. In our journey towards healthier communities, it is clear that no single approach works for everyone. But with the insights shared today, we are better equipped to move forward with compassion, informed strategies, and a commitment to positive change."

This was the third forum organised by the MCP, following the success of the first one held on Collective Trauma in May 2024 and the second one on the Psychology of Corruption held in June 2024. The forum granted participants five CPD hours as well as a certificate of attendance.

The next forum organised by the MCP will focus on the Psychology of the Elderly and will be held on 22 November 2024. More information will be made available in the coming weeks.

The main objective of the MCP is to act as a professional body for the discipline of psychology in Malta and as a representative body for psychologists practising in Malta. It also aims to advance the practice of psychology in Malta and to make psychology accessible to all.

The MCP prioritises the promotion of psychologists' and psychology graduates' general welfare. The Chamber serves as a common platform for psychologists and psychology graduates practising in the Maltese Islands. As a registered union, the Chamber works hard towards the maintenance and improvement of psychologists' and psychology graduates' conditions of work. For more information and to become a member visit https://www.mcp.org.mt/