Abstract

Opioid addiction has emerged as a global health crisis, affecting millions of individuals and straining healthcare systems worldwide. The interplay between stress and opioid addiction has gained increasing attention due to its significant role in substance use initiation, maintenance, and relapse. This article explores the complex neurobiological and psychological mechanisms linking stress and opioid addiction, emphasizing the involvement of the hypothalamicpituitary- adrenal (HPA) axis, neurotransmitter systems, and behavioral conditioning. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing more effective prevention and treatment strategies. The discussion includes the impact of chronic stress on opioid receptor function, the role of the endogenous opioid system in stress response, and the behavioral consequences of stress-induced drug-seeking behaviours. Novel therapeutic approaches, including pharmacological and behavioral interventions, are also reviewed to highlight potential pathways for addressing opioid addiction in individuals exposed to high stress levels.