Parts of The Brain That Are Affected by Addiction as per Skyward Center 

Many alcohol and drug users are unaware that these drugs can potentially alter their brain chemistry. This is specifically accurate when it comes to brain growth that happens before the age of 25. Neurotransmitters in the brain control dopamine production and addictive substances can have long-term effects if they interfere with this process.

Repeated and prolonged drug use may cause structural changes in the brain’s “reward system” (the basal ganglia), cognitive emotion regulation unit (the amygdala), and decision-making and impulse control center (the prefrontal cortex). Because of these effects, drug or alcohol addiction is often referred to by recovery experts as a brain illness. Addiction treatment is a procedure that takes time to rebuild the brain and involves more than simply getting rid of the drugs one has in their system.

There is no denying the significance of the brain’s neurotransmitters when it comes to addiction. Each person experiences addiction differently since it is a complex disorder. Genetics, environment, and psychological health are all factors in how a person responds to certain substances, like alcohol, illicit narcotics, or prescription medications.

NSDUH estimates that 45 percent of people with SUD also have a co-occurring mental health issue. According to estimates, 30 million Americans are dependent on alcohol or drugs.

Brain Parts Responsible for Addiction

People with SUD often exhibit poor self-control. The ability to manage some habits, such as the desire to take solace in instability in the brain’s chemical composition, can be more challenging for those who continue using alcohol or other drugs.

Analysis of two other brain regions, the prefrontal cortex, and the expanded amygdala, can provide insight into how addiction is managed. The expanded amygdala controls how we respond emotionally to stress. When dopamine enters the reward circuitry, stress neurotransmitters are produced in the expanded amygdala, prompting the brain to avoid unpleasant situations. The basal ganglia and extended amygdala regulate the urge for pleasure and the avoidance of pain without medication.

Some people do not end up using drugs to get high but rather to keep from feeling depressed.

Skyward Treatment Center is The Solution to Your Troubles

Addiction is a recognized mental disorder. It takes time since the brain has to unlearn addictive behaviors before it can repair them. You ought to be aware that recovery from addiction depends on maintaining excellent brain health if you or somebody you worry about is struggling with it. The rehabilitation of the brain depends on some factors for example getting adequate sleep and eating healthy meals. At Skyward Treatment Center in Dallas, our experienced mental health professionals and therapists take a thorough approach to healing. Our programs address addiction and the associated mental health issues to support cognitive functioning and long-term recovery. We offer various treatment regimens at our residential treatment center, such as behavioral and diagnostic counseling, 12-Step programs, and several individually tailored treatment plans. We also work with other healthcare specialists to provide our patients with the best treatment possible. Reach out to Skyward Center for more information.