Why You Can’t Just "Quit": Dopamine, Vaping & Altered Brain Chemistry

What is the deadliest item in London's Vagina Museum? Why are drug addiction rates in Australia spiking by over 30% post-pandemic? And if you've already had two surgeries for inherited bunions, is "third time's a charm" actually possible? What makes a substance addictive, and why is it so hard to just "quit"? In this episode, Claire Murphy and Dr. Mariam dive into the complexities of drug addiction in Australia, from the alarming rise of vaping among teens, to the shifting chemistry of the brain. We are joined by Dr. Shalini Arunogiri , an addiction psychiatrist, Associate Professor at Monash University and Clinical Director at Turning Point. She breaks down the "reward" chemicals like dopamine and serotonin that hook us, the reality of relapse, and why alcohol remains the most harmful drug from a population health perspective. Dr. Shalini also addresses the cannabis debate - exploring the link between high-potency use and psychosis - and why the term "addict" is being replaced by more empathetic, health-centered language. But first, we take a field trip to London's Vagina Museum to look at its deadliest item…We discuss the history of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), the biology of the vaginal wall and why "retained tampon smell" is a more common clinic visit than you'd think. And, in our Quick Consult, Dr. Mariam helps listener Simone navigate the tricky world of "inherited bunions". EPISODE RESOURCES: If this episode has raised concerns for you, or if you are considering your own substance use, the following resources are available for confidential support: Counselling Online : The recommended first port of call for those questioning their drug use or looking for help. It features a Self-Assessment Quiz , a national directory and 24/7 access to online chat or telephone-based support. National Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Hotline : For free and confidential advice, call 1800 250 015 . SMART Recovery Australia : A network of evidence-based support meetings for people seeking recovery. Turning Point Hamilton Care And if this episode triggered anything for you and you need someone to talk to, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 . GET IN TOUCH Sign up to the Well Newsletter to receive your weekly dose of trusted health expertise without the medical jargon. Ask a question of our experts or share your story, feedback, or dilemma - you can send it anonymously here , email here or leave us a voice note here . Ask The Doc: Ask us a question in The Waiting Room .

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Why You Can’t Just "Quit": Dopamine, Vaping & Altered Brain Chemistry is an episode from The Well by Well.

This episode is 38:35 long.

This episode was published on Jan 21, 2026.

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