Addiction can happen to anyone, regardless of age or background. It is a chronic issue that affects the brain and can lead to compulsive drug or alcohol use, even with negative consequences. Addiction is often viewed as a lack of willpower or moral weakness, but in reality, it is a complex disease that changes the brain in fundamental ways.
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Addiction and the Brain
When someone uses drugs or alcohol, it can cause a surge of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for pleasure and reward. This surge of dopamine is what causes the “high” that people feel when they use drugs or alcohol. Over time, however, the brain adapts to these dopamine surges and becomes less sensitive to them. This means that the person needs more and more of the drug or alcohol to get the same effect. This is called tolerance.
- As the brain becomes more tolerant of the drug or alcohol, the person will need to use more and more of it to feel the same high. This leads to physical changes in the brain, including changes in the structure and function of the brain’s reward center. The reward center is a group of structures in the brain that are responsible for pleasure and reward. When someone experiences something pleasurable, such as eating or having sex, the reward center is activated.
- In people with addiction, the reward center is hyperactive, which means that it is constantly seeking out more pleasure and reward. This makes it much harder for the person to quit using drugs or alcohol, even when they want to. Additionally, the brain’s stress and anxiety systems become overactive, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems.
- When someone stops using drugs or alcohol, it can take time for the brain to heal and adjust. This can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be uncomfortable or even dangerous in some cases. Some people may need medical assistance to safely detox from drugs or alcohol. Once the person has detoxed, they may still experience cravings and other symptoms of addiction.
Addiction is a complex disease that affects the brain in many different ways. It is important to understand the changes that occur in the brain during addiction, as this can help us develop better treatments and preventions. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, it is important to seek professional help.
How to Treat Addiction
There are many effective treatments available, including:
- Counseling
- Medications
- Support groups
With the proper treatment and support, recovery is possible. Remember, addiction is a disease, not a moral failing. No one is immune to addiction, but with the right help, anyone can overcome it.
Heal From Addiction at Oceanfront Recovery
When it comes to the brain and addiction, Oceanfront Recovery is here to help. Your story doesn’t have to be caught up in the cycle of addiction. You can begin building a brighter future in sobriety by making the courageous decision to seek help now. Oceanfront Recovery, a treatment center in the heart of beautiful Laguna Beach, is staffed with compassionate professionals who understand the disease of addiction from every angle and are dedicated to providing clients with all the tools necessary to achieve and maintain sobriety. For information about individualized treatment options, please contact us today at 877.296.7477.
