In order to understand addiction, it is necessary move past the many emotional responses that both those in recovery and their loved ones have to the word. There is no reason to feel guilt, shame or resentment towards a person’s addiction, even if it has caused them to do or say unlikeable things. Rather, it is important to understand addiction for the medical condition that it is.
New research reveals that addiction is a disease of the brain, much like Alzheimer’s disease or a brain tumor. Therefore, people with substance-related problems should actually receive sympathy, rather than anger or blame, just as they would if they had any other medical condition.
Addictive Substances Take Over
While those with substance-related problems do make the initial decision to start using, the addictive substances soon take over. Alcohol and drugs alter how the brain transmits information, and their ability to remember, make decisions and have normal emotional responses may also be impaired. And, unfortunately, simply removing the substance is not enough to overcome the damage.
How Addiction Delays Normal Development
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.
Neurobiology and Addiction
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.
When the parts of the brain that control planning skills and impulse control are poorly developed, the brain is more likely to become addicted.
Exposure to abuse and trauma may also cause substances to impact a young person differently than they would someone who has not experienced either.
The Impact of Substances on the Brain’s Chemistry
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.
