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Our brain has three layers. The outside layer is the thinking brain (Cortical Structures)... the middle layer is the feeling brain (Limbic System)... and the inside layer is the visceral brain (Vital Functions). Deep inside the feeling brain there is a small cluster of networked neurons called the nucleus accumbens. This neural network is a critical part of a larger network responsible for regulating our survival systems. The nucleus accumbens is also part of our reward pathway. Also in this same area are three basic survival systems -- instinctive networks we are born with. They are referred to here as the "Eat"... "Don’t get eaten"... and "Reproduce" Systems. Our internal world is accustomed to a certain biological balance or "steady-state". When the balance is upset, the appropriate survival system is activated so as to regain that balance, also known as homeostasis. This presentation explores all these survival systems and how the neural networks of addiction get "wired" into our survival networks, which explains the loss of control that is the hallmark of addiction.
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Biological Balance of Addiction
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Don Carter, MSW, LCSW
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Biological Balance of Addiction
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Don Carter, MSW, LCSW
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Neural Networksw
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• 100 Billion Neurons, “Computers”• A Cluster of Neurons = Network• Networks Embedded in Networks• Each Network Has a Function• Learning = Self-Programming• Demo: Raising Your Arm “Program”• Other Programming:
• Tying your shoes• Driving a Car• Doing Your Job
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Survival Networksw
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Survival Networks • “Eat” = Hunger• “Don’t Get Eaten” = Fear• “Reproduce” = Arousal
Neuro-Modulators & Satiation• Dopamine = “On Switch”• Serotonin = “Off Switch
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Addiction Networks Get “Wired” Into the Survival Networks, (Ruden & Byalick, “The Craving Brain”)
Addiction NetworksAddiction Networks • “Eat” = Hunger/Food, Chemicals• “Don’t Get Eaten” = Fear/OCD • “Reproduce” = Arousal/Sex, Porn, Gambling
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Crave
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Resist
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Pain
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Act-Out
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Freedom
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• Go to Recovery Meetings• Talk to Sponsor or Friend• Prayer & Meditation• Read Recovery Literature• Apply 12-Step Recovery Toolsw
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Freedom
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Biological Balance of Addiction
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Don Carter, MSW, LCSW
