Addiction plays out within the body and the mind and it can cause very distressing symptoms. Fortunately, drug addiction can be treated once the person finally accepts the reality he or she is addicted and takes the steps to regain one’s life. Understanding addiction is key for recovery. Addiction counselors can help teach individuals what addiction is and how to better cope with it. It is hence critical to have a complete understanding how addiction controls the body and negatively affects the brain and its functioing.
The article, “The Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain and Body” by Laura Dorwart looks closer at how addiction affects the brain and body. She states,
“If you’re experiencing drug addiction, you’re not alone. Drug addiction is common, but it’s also preventable and treatable. The earlier you seek help and inform yourself about the effects of drug addiction, the faster you can achieve long-term recovery.”
“The Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain and Body”. Laura Dorwart. January 24th, 2022. VeryWellHealth
Substance Abuse Counselors and other mental health care professionals can help. To review the entire article, please click here
Commentary
Addiction can be defined as a pathological condition characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli, despite adverse consequences. It is a state of profound psychological dependence on the substance or behaviour, and results from dysregulation of the mesolimbic reward pathway in the brain. The condition is characterized by habituation to certain behaviours or substances, leading to maladaptive patterns of consumption and a propensity to continue use despite associated negative outcomes.
Addiction and the Body
The effects of addiction on the body can be multifaceted and far-reaching. Physically, individuals who are addicted to substances may experience an array of deleterious physiological implications, such as changes in their autonomic nervous system, endocrine system, metabolism and immune function. Moreover, addiction can lead to a variety of cardiorespiratory conditions due to prolonged substance abuse. Additionally, addiction has been linked to various neurological impairments and psychological dysfunctions including depression and anxiety. Studies have demonstrated that long-term use can cause structural and functional changes to various organ systems such as the cardiovascular system, the respiratory system, and the gastrointestinal system.
When one attempts to push away from a particular substance, withdraw can occur as well. Addiction and withdrawal are phenomena involving the dysregulation of homeostatic systems in an organism resulting from an interplay between environmental stimuli and physiological states. Specifically, addiction is a maladaptive response to conditions in which an individual continues to engage in a behavior despite potential consequences, whereas withdrawal is the physical or psychological symptoms that occur when ceasing such behavior. The underlying mechanisms for these processes remain elusive, however proposed theories focus on potential neural pathways associated with the reward system and positive reinforcement.
Addiction and the Brain
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite adverse consequences. Neurobiological research suggests that addiction exerts its influence through alterations in the reward circuitry of the brain, which involves multiple neurotransmitters and reward pathways. These changes occur through a process of neuroadaptation whereby drug-induced stimulation of the reward system results in an increase in neuronal activity and synaptic plasticity.
Addiction impairs the functioning of different neural circuitry within the brain. It is characterized by an inability to control the use of drugs or other substances, despite the negative consequences associated with its use. Neurobiologically, addiction is thought to be caused by alterations in dopamine neurotransmission in reward pathways which may lead to a dysregulation of these systems and impairments in cognitive functioning.
Overcoming Addiction
The process of overcoming addiction is typified by the individual engaging in a series of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional interventions that are aimed at altering the maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors associated with their substance use. This includes developing healthier coping skills to manage cravings, triggers, and other environmental cues that may lead to relapse. With appropriate psychological support, individuals can learn to recognize and modify negative thought patterns that can underlie problematic substance use.
Once an individual begins to notice a trend, they can seek help to free themselves from the addictive process. Usually this results in understanding the numerous negative effects of the particular addiction on one’s personal relationships, finances, and overall health. No addiction can be overcome until one consciously chooses to make an effort to change and become better. Those with better support groups and stronger coping abilities find better success in this endeavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addiction is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can manifest itself in many forms and have dramatic impacts on the individual and those around them. While it may be difficult to break free from addiction, there are resources available to help those suffering. It is important to remember that addiction is a treatable condition with the right support and guidance. Every person battling addiction deserves understanding and compassion, as well as respect for their courage in addressing this difficult situation.
In addition, addiction has severe and long-lasting physical effects on the human body. This includes an altered brain chemistry, organ damage, and even changes in physical appearance. These effects can be counteracted by seeking professional help, abstaining from drugs or alcohol, and participating in healthy activities. Taking care of one’s physical health should be a priority when dealing with addiction. It is important to remember that recovery is possible and it starts by taking small steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling Training. Through this training, qualified professionals can better be equipped to help individuals deal and cope with addiction.
Additional Resources
“Causes of Addiction”. Psychology Today Staff. Psychology Today. Access here
“Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts”. June 2018. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Access here
“How Science Has Revolutionized the Understanding of Drug Addiction”. Nora Volkow, MD. July 2020. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Access here
“Understanding the Science of Addiction”. Richard Friedman, MD. April 20th, 2022. Weill Cornell Medicine. Access here