A Disease of the Brain
There are many stigmas attached to addiction in our society. It has long been seen as a sign of weakness or moral failing. But new research reveals that addiction is actually a disease of the brain, much like Alzheimer’s disease or a brain tumor, and people with substance-related problems should receive sympathy, just as they would if they had any other medical condition.
Invasion of the Brain Snatcher
Addictive substances alter how the brain transmits information, hijacking areas that transmit pleasure and replacing normal desires and motivations with an overwhelming need for the substance. The brain’s ability to remember, make decisions and have normal emotional responses may also be impacted. And, unfortunately, simply removing the substance is not enough to repair the damage.
Being 19, Acting 14
The impact on young people’s brains can be even more devastating, as their development is still ongoing. Substance use and addiction can waylay their brain chemistry, delaying normal emotional, psychological and mental growth. For example, a 19-year-old who began using at age 14 remains emotionally and intellectually stalled at that age, and they need to be addressed at that level.
Who’s at Risk?
Neurobiology may also impact who is at risk for substance-related problems. Not only is family history a factor in addiction, as has long been known, but when the parts of the brain that control planning skills and impulse control are poorly developed, the brain is more likely to become addicted. Also, some people are biologically inclined to crave more intense stimuli than others, which can make them more likely to use substances.
Exposure to abuse and trauma may also cause substances to impact a young person differently than they would someone who has not experienced either.
Brain Chemistry Gone Bad
Once the substance takes over the brain’s chemistry, it creates cravings, replaces normal urges and erases memories of bad experiences that happened because of the substance. Successful recovery requires time for the brain to heal and a combination of psychological and behavioral interventions that can help young people to reprogram their urges and set new goals that are in keeping with the kind of life they want to create for themselves.
At ARMS, we believe that educating our patients empowers them to understand and take control of their own recovery. It can also help them to forgive themselves for bad choices they made while using substances and to begin to see themselves and their life in an all knew and more positive way.
