NIH Invests in Social Media to Help Understand, Prevent and Treat Substance Abuse

The NIH has awarded more than $11million over 3 years to three institutes to help support the research into exploring the use of social media to help understand, present and treat substance abuse. According to NIDA Director Dr. Nora D. Volkow, ” These awards are the result of an active collaboration among three institutes to develop innovative approaches that advance the science of substance use and addiction.”

Because of the verbal nature of social media, scientists will be able to collect important information regarding attitudes and myths concerning alcohol, tobacco and other addictive substances. The various social media platforms will also allow the institutes to push out communication regarding science-based, health-related messages.

To view the awardees, please visit: http://www.drugabuse.gov/news-events/news-releases/2014/10/using-social-media-to-better-understand-prevent-treat-substance-use