How does addiction begin? The nucleus accumbens, widely known as the brain’s pleasure region, is the origin of addiction. When a person engages in a pleasurable activity, whether it be a drug, sexual encounter, or even a wonderful meal, the nucleus accumbens releases dopamine, a so-called “happy chemical” that serves as a reward and incentive to repeat the behavior. Alcohol and drugs circumvent this reward mechanism by flooding the brain with dopamine and conditioning a response that can lead to addiction. Continued exposure to such substances will result in the development of tolerance, which will necessitate higher doses to achieve the same effects. As tolerance increases, the body becomes dependent on the chemical and develops withdrawal symptoms in its absence.
Underlying Medical Disorders and Addiction
Some medical disorders can enhance the likelihood of becoming addicted.
Many individuals prescribed opioid medicines to ease post-surgery pain develop tolerance and, in some cases, an opioid-use problem.
Occasionally, the secondary consequences of certain medical diseases can prompt you to turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping method.
Environmental factors
Many environmental factors can influence your addiction risk profile.
In the absence of parental participation, children and adolescents frequently experiment more freely with alcohol and other substances.
Access to narcotics and prescription medications can also increase the likelihood of substance experimentation.
Some children and adolescents may use alcohol or drugs as a coping technique due to parental neglect or maltreatment.
Underlying Medical Disorders
Some medical disorders can enhance the likelihood of becoming addicted.
Many individuals prescribed opioid medicines to ease post-surgery pain develop tolerance and, in some cases, an opioid-use problem.
Occasionally, the secondary consequences of certain medical diseases can prompt you to turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping method.
If you are concerned about a loved one’s drug usage, please contact us so that we may be of assistance.
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