Addiction

Addiction is a disease of the brain• Characterized by:

Compulsive BehaviorContinued abuse of drugs despite negative consequences

Persistent changes in the brain’s structure and function

AddictionDecades of research have revealed

addiction to be a disease that alters the brain. We now know that while the initial decision to use drugs is voluntary, drug addiction is a disease of the brain that compels a person to become singularly obsessed with obtaining and abusing drugs despite their many adverse health and life consequences.

Why do people take drugs?To feel good

To have novel feelings, sensations and experiences

Share these experiences with others

To feel goodTo lesson anxiety, worries, fears, depression, hopelessness

DopamineDopamine is a brain chemical involved in many different functions including movement, motivation, reward — and addiction.

DopamineNearly all drugs of abuse directly or indirectly increase dopamine in the pleasure and motivation pathways

Other NeurotransmittersScientific research has shown that other

neurotransmitter systems are also affected:

SerotoninRegulates mood, sleep, etc.

GlutamateRegulates learning and memory, etc.

This is your brain on drugs:Prolonged drug use changes the brain in fundamental and long-lasting way

Evidence that these changes can be both structural and functional

Environmental Addiction Factors StressEarly physical or sexual abuse

Witnessing violencePeers who use drugsDrug availability

AddictionDrug addiction, like other chronic diseases requires long-term treatment to help people get to a point where they can manage their recovery and regain their lives.