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In-person Health & Wellness Community

Navigating Addiction: In Conversation with U of T Alumnus Dr. Timothy Parker

Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026
6:00pm to 8:00pm

Matrix Hotel

presentations

Free

More Information

Jan.
28

Join us for an engaging conversation on how addiction changes the brain—and what that means for recovery.

Drawing on insights from his book Trapped by the High, Dr. Timothy Parker (BSc 1976 TRIN) explores the complex relationship between addiction and the brain. This talk examines why addiction fundamentally alters brain function, often leaving recovering individuals with cognitive impairments, and why relapse remains such a persistent challenge. It explains the mechanisms behind drug tolerance and withdrawal symptoms, including why these symptoms often oppose the drug’s original effects, and compares the impact of substances such as cannabis and alcohol on brain health.

The presentation also addresses why people continue using drugs long after the pleasure fades, what brain changes underlie these behaviors, and why recovering individuals remain vulnerable to re-establishing their habits. Finally, it considers what evidence-based approaches to treatment offer the best hope for recovery.

Your alumni representative and event organizer Sameer Singh (MBA 2011), will be there to welcome you.

Light refreshments will be provided.

Don’t miss out—register now for this engaging and informative session!

Matrix Hotel

10640 100 Avenue NW
Edmonton, AB, T5J 3N8