We all know that an addiction is an extremely powerful force that can influence an individual’s behavior and lifestyle in unpredictable and unmanageable ways. But how exactly do they work in the brain on the cellular and biochemical level? How does the object of an addiction change the brain’s chemistry to result in the addictive behavior that can dominate a person’s lifestyle?
Alcohol is a Sedative Substance
After ingesting alcohol, a certain state of relaxation and calm is induced, which makes a person feel more comfortable and less agitated. In times of high stress and anxiety, substances can temporarily “help” someone become more relaxed. Substance addiction consists of becoming addicted to the stress-relieving and calming properties of the substance. On a biological level, alcohol acts much like sleeping pills, as it reduces the degree of excitation of nervous cells. When the alcohol starts to wear off, people usually experience withdrawal effects such as anxiety, agitation and restlessness, which often leads to consuming alcohol again. It is important for the addict to recognize that the stress-relief properties of alcohol are temporary, and ingesting alcohol will lead to withdrawal symptoms later.
Most Drug Addictions are Related to the Dopamine System in the Brain
Dopamine is a brain neurotransmitter, which is a signaling substance used in the communication between brain cells. However, dopamine has special functions within the human brain. It is the neurotransmitter involved in the “reward system” circuit of the brain. In other words, dopamine is produced and released in great amounts when one feels pleasure, after a significant accomplishment or when performing tasks that bring satisfaction, such as eating a delicious meal, having sex or watching an entertaining movie. Most drugs are directly connected to the dopamine system, which results in addiction through artificial enhancement of dopamine levels.
Drugs such as amphetamines and cocaine increase dopamine levels in the brain, which temporarily creates a sensation of pleasure. Other drugs such as marijuana, heroin or LSD work on different biological systems within the brain. Dopamine is also released during sex, along with endorphins, also called “pleasure hormones” which serve as the biological basis for sex addictions.
