The Science Behind Addiction: Understanding the Brain's Role in Substance Abuse

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Addiction and the brain are intricately connected, with substance abuse profoundly affecting brain chemistry and function. When a person becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol the brain’s reward center is hi-jackesd leading to the compulsive behaviors that keep them coming back for more. It is important to understand the science behind the healing process when overcoming addiction. One must rewire their neurotransmitters in order to restore balance to the brain.

In this blog, we explore the neuroscience of addiction, delving into how various substances interact with neurotransmitters and the latest research findings on this critical topic.

How Different Substances Interact with Brain Chemistry

Having a deeper level of understanding of the effects of different types of substance abuse on the brain is an important part of the recovery process. The science behind the relationship between substance abuse and brain chemistry depends on which substance the brain is being exposed to. Here is a breakdown of how addiction affects brain chemistry with different substances.

Alcohol 

• Increases the effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter decreasing responses in the brain resulting in slurred speech, balance, and basic motor functioning
• Long-term use can damage brain regions involved in memory, decision-making, impulse control, attention, sleep regulation, and other cognitive functions
• Learn more about alcohol addiction recovery here.

Opioids

• Activate opioid receptors on cells located in the brain, spinal cord, and other organs in the body, especially those involved in feelings of pain and pleasure
• Block pain signals sent from the brain to the body and release large amounts of dopamine in the brain's reward regions
• Long term use of opioids increases risk of anxiety, depression, liver damage, and slowed breathing leading to lack of oxygen 
• Learn more about opioid addiction recovery here.

Stimulants

• Causes an increase in nervous system activity such as racing heart, shortness of breath, bursts of energy and release of dopamine
• Long term use can cause decreased gray matter volume in certain areas of the brain leaving you at high risk of various mental diseases 

Cannabis

• Cannabinoids affect the nervous system and plays a significant role in the functioning of the immune system
• Long term effects can cause memory loss, decline in cognitive processing, appetite dysregulation, and increased anxiety and depression

It is important to work with a professional when detoxing from any substance as medical intervention may be required to ensure a safe outcome.

Role of Neurotransmitters in Addiction

Neurotransmitters are the messengers of the body releasing signals to the brain to take action. When neurotransmitters are being controlled by substance abuse the messages can go haywire and the body can go into overdrive or underdrive. 

Dopamine

‍plays a role in your body’s reward system, which includes feeling pleasure and learning new things. Dopamine also helps with focus, concentration, memory, sleep, mood and motivation. When dopamine becomes dysregulated you are at risk for Parkinson's disease, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. 

Serotonin

is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Serotonin helps regulate mood, sleep patterns, sexuality, anxiety, appetite, and pain. Diseases associated with serotonin imbalance include anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. 

GABA

is the most common inhibitory neurotransmitter of your nervous system, particularly in your brain. It regulates brain activity to prevent problems in the areas of irritability, concentration, sleep, seizures, and depression. 

It is important to know that a large part of the recovery process entails healing and rebuilding your body’s neurotransmitter receptors. At Hollywood Hills Recovery we are here to walk that path with you. 

Latest Research Findings on Addiction and Brain Function

The studies being done on brain function and addiction are still well in the research and development phase. There have been great strides in the advancement of neuroimaging with the use of MRI and PET scans during the diagnostic discovery process. These advanced imaging techniques can detect brain function and potential disease much earlier and in areas of the brain that have been previously hard to access. 

It is important to remember that addiction is a disease of the brain and must be approached as such. Just like other disorders, genetics can be a key contributor to a person’s propensity for substance abuse but with consistent and intentional work the brain can be repaired. 

When a person in recovery develops a new healthy habit, the brain changes, creating a new neural pathway reinforcing the new habit. As the new positive habit is continually repeated, the new pathway strengthens through neuroplasticity.

If you are ready to implement healthy habits and take the necessary steps to improve your brain and overall health on a new path of sobriety, Hollywood Hills Recovery is here to help. By taking a look into your daily habits, abuse patterns, genetic disposition, and the current landscape of your brain function we can tailor a treatment program just for you and your specific needs. 

Call Hollywood Hills Recovery today and let’s get started.