The concept of addiction is not new, but the science behind it is still being uncovered. We know that addiction is a complex issue with many factors at play, from genetics to environment and everything in between. But how do we begin to understand the science behind addiction? In this article, we will examine the current state of research on addiction.
Affects The Body Through Neurotransmitters
The body is affected by addiction through neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit messages between nerve cells. These neurotransmitters are responsible for feelings of pleasure, pain, and reward. When someone uses drugs or alcohol, it alters the way these neurotransmitters work, which can lead to addiction.
There are several different types of neurotransmitters, each with their own function. For example, dopamine is responsible for the feeling of pleasure and is often associated with drug use. This release of dopamine feels good and reinforces the behaviors that led to its release. Drugs of abuse hijack this natural system by flooding the brain with dopamine. This overstimulation of the reward system produces the “high” that people feel when they use drugs. However, over time the brain becomes less sensitive to dopamine, which means that the user has to take more of the drug to get the same effect. This can lead to addiction as the person tries to chase that initial high.
If you think you might have an addiction, don’t suffer alone. Hand yourself over to the professionals who know how to give you the proper treatment you need. If you worry about the cost, there are facilities that accept Meritain health drug and alcohol rehab insurance that are committed to providing their clients with the best possible care. You can start your recovery journey and choose the level of care that you need.
Addicted Brains Look ‘Different’ From Normal Brains
The brains of people who abuse drugs look different than those of people who don’t. Studies using brain imaging technologies have shown that chronic drug use alters the structure and function of the brain’s reward system. These changes can be long-lasting and can lead to problems with learning, memory, and decision-making.
An Addicted Brain Causes Behavior Changes
In addition to changes in how the brain processes rewards, addiction also alters other important brain systems for controlling our behavior. For example, addiction can cause changes in the parts of the brain that help us control our impulses and make decisions. These changes can lead to reckless and impulsive behaviors as well as problems with decision-making. The combination of all these changes in the brain caused by addiction can lead to drastic changes in a person’s behavior. They may start neglecting their responsibilities at home, work, or school. They may begin engaging in risky behaviors like using drugs or driving while drunk.
Some People Are More Likely To Get Addicted Than Others
People with certain genetic dispositions and those who grow up in specific environments are more likely to become addicted to drugs or alcohol. Researchers are still trying to pinpoint the specific genes and environmental factors that contribute to addiction, but some general trends have been observed. People who have a family history of addiction are more likely to become addicted themselves. This could be due to genetic factors, or it could be because they learn addictive behaviors from their parents or other relatives. Similarly, certain environments can also make people more susceptible to addiction. For example, people who grow up in poverty or who witness violence are more likely than others to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of escaping from their difficult reality. If someone is constantly exposed to drugs or alcohol, they’re also more likely to develop an addiction.
Get The Help You Need
The science of addiction is still being studied, and researchers are working hard to identify all of the factors that contribute to this complex disease. If you feel like you or a loved one may be suffering from an addiction, it’s important to reach out for help as soon as possible. There are professionals who specialize in all kinds of addiction to see you get the proper help you need.
