Connection Dopamine and Addiction
What is the association with dopamine and addiction? Addiction is frequently associated with non-medical self-administration of drugs and can be classified according to the neural mechanisms that they stimulate. When addictive substances in your body are combined with dopamine, an artificial setting is formed rather than the chemical flowing naturally.
Some substances mimic the neurotransmitter, misleading the brain into allowing those drugs to attach to neurons which heightens the effects of dopamine to dangerous levels. Over time, the brain begins to require more dopamine than regular production can provide.
Reward Center and Addiction
When dopamine is released into the reward center pathways as a result of a positive event, your brain registers what sets off the sensation. Was it some sort of substance? Is it a habit? Were you with someone in particular? When you are exposed to those environmental cues, you will develop a desire to seek out the same pleasure. This drive can be quite strong, resulting in a difficult-to-control impulse.
What is Dopamine Dependence?
Dopamine, a neurotransmitter that transfers nerve cell signals throughout the brain, can play a large part in developing an addiction. Dopamine’s effects exhibit themselves in a variety of ways; however, it’s a complicated chemical that can lead to dependence in certain individuals. It’s critical for family members to understand what dopamine is, how it works, and why drug users continue to increase their drug intake to get a higher response from dopamine.
You can increase dopamine naturally by:
- Exercise
- Reading
- Music
- Listening to Podcasts
- Spending time with family and friends
Addiction Treatment
Our drug rehabs Roswell addiction treatment centers, clients with alcohol, opiates, and other drug addictions are treated effectively. Clients who finish our outpatient, mindfulness-based addiction treatment program have reported success rates of up to 85%. Our program is one-of-a-kind, extremely adaptable to accommodate a range of schedules, and has a proven track record of not just sobriety but also overall life improvement.
We strive to be the best drug rehab in the Atlanta, Georgia area. We provide an alternative to the 12-step substance abuse rehabilitation model. Many of our clients failed using the 12-steps. We provide a holistic approach that focuses on mindfulness. Some of our clients do not have a substance abuse problem and are just looking for a richer life. So, whether you have a drug or alcohol addiction problem or not we can help you achieve a happier and heathier life. Contact us for more information at 800-556-2966.
By: Sarah Q. Psychology student at GSU
