Addiction Impact to the Brain

Table of contents

Introduction1

What is drug addiction?2

Why are drugs consumed?2

To feel better2

To feel good3

To do better3

Curiosity3

Perception among drug users3

Initial decision4

Not everyone gets addicted to drugs4

Determinants of addiction4

Environmental factors5

Biological factors5

The development of the brain5

Preventing drug abuse - the critical time5

The human brain6

The brain and communication7

Effect of drugs on the brain7

Effect of long term drug use8

Drugs and pleasure8

Solutions9

Endnotes10

Addiction Impact to the Brain

Introduction

Throughout the 20th century, scientists who studied drug abuse worked under the shadows of misconceptions and myths about addiction and its nature. Science began studying addictive behavior during the beginning of the 20th century and during this time addicted people were considered having a lack of willpower and morally flawed. Most societies thought of drug addiction to be a moral failing. They did not think of this addiction as a health problem and therefore, they never tried to take therapeutic or preventive actions. But now, science has changed the way we look at and understand drug addiction; thus, enabling us to take necessary steps to respond to the issue.

Science has led us to understand that addiction is like a disease that affects our behavior and brain. Various environmental and biological factors have been identified and genetic variations are being searched for that potentially contributes to the progression and development of this disease. Scientists use this information to develop treatment and prevention approaches that can help families and individuals to tackle this problem.

Despite several discoveries, people still do not understand hoe drug changes the brain and why people addicted to them. Making people understand the basics of addiction will help them to make better decisions in order to avoid the risk posed by drugs and their abuse.

Addiction to drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, and other illegal substances cost people several thousand dollars each. When all the social, medical, criminal, and economic impacts are combined, the value increases several times. Each year, thousands of people lose their life due to addiction.

What is drug addiction?

Drug addiction is a relapsing brain disease with characteristics of compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful effects. It is termed as a disease because it changes the structure of the brain and the way it works. These effects are long lasting and can even lead to death. Once a person gets addicted to drugs it is very difficult to get free from this trap. It may take years of efforts to get free. If not, death is always in the waiting.

Why are drugs consumed?

Drugs are common all over the world. Due to their restrictions, they cost more than any other consumable substance. Even a small amount can cost millions. Despite the high cost, drugs are consumer abundantly, even by those who cannot afford them. Drugs are consumed for a variety of reasons, the most common are:

To feel better

People who suffer from stress, anxiety, and depression use drugs to lessen the distress feelings. Stress plays a major part in attracting people towards the beginning and continuation of drug abuse. Drugs are not a permanent solution to get rid of stress, ...