News items Vaping, alcohol or pills: harmless addiction? 

10 September 2025

A beer after work, vaping during a break, six cups of coffee a day — for many people, substance use is a normal part of life. But when does it become an addiction? And how harmful is it, physically and mentally? Join us on September 22 at LUX in Nijmegen for a Radboud Reflects debate evening on addiction with Arnt Schellekens and Marion Biermans. Please note: Lecture and conversation in Dutch.

Substance use: habit, addiction or disease?

During this debate evening, Professor of Addiction and Psychiatry and National Rapporteur on Addictions Arnt Schellekens, together with psychologist Marion Biermans, will explore the medical and societal aspects of addiction. What happens in the brain during dependency? How does addiction affect behavior, health and relationships? And how can you recognize the signs — in yourself or in others? 

Addiction as a disease: a medical and ethical issue

Addiction is increasingly recognized as a brain disease, with neurobiological processes playing a central role. At the same time, this raises questions about responsibility and treatment. Can someone who is ill be held accountable for harmful behavior? And does it help people with addiction if we partially relieve them of that responsibility? 

Schellekens and Biermans will share their scientific insights and practical experiences, and engage in a conversation about how we as a society, as healthcare providers, and as individuals can deal with addiction. 

Practical information and ticket sales

  • Date: Monday, September 22 
  • Time: 8:00–9:30 PM 
  • Location: LUX Nijmegen
  • Lecture and conversation in Dutch
  • Tickets are available via the Radboud Reflects website

Admission: 

  • Free for students, pupils, and Radboud Reflects subscribers 
  • €6.00 for employees of Radboudumc, Radboud University, and Alumni Benefit Card holders 
  • €8.50 for other visitors

More information


Pauline Dekhuijzen

wetenschaps- en persvoorlichter

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