Can we cure addiction? - A Question of Science with Brian Cox

Why do people become addicted? When does a habit turn into self harm and what makes recovery so hard? From drugs and alcohol to gambling and social media, join our panel of experts as they explore the causes of addiction, what it looks like in the brain and potential new treatments, including psychedelic therapies. Panel: Prof Sally Marlow: Professor of Public Understanding of Mental Health at KCL Matt Willis: Musician/actor and podcaster in recovery from addictions Dr Nicky Kalk: Psychiatrist and addiction specialist at Maudsley NHS Trust Prof David Nutt: Director of the Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Imperial College, London A Question of Science A Question of Science is a groundbreaking series of panel discussions where experts from different fields respond to your questions, sharing the scientific perspective on society’s most pressing questions. A Question of Science is BBC Studios production for the Francis Crick Institute. The Francis Crick Institute The Francis Crick Institute is one of the biggest research institutes in Europe. We’re an independent lab and registered charity, and home to more than 1,500 scientists working to understand health, disease and how life works. © BBC Studios / Francis Crick Institute 2026