Addiction can wreak havoc on the brain. Not only can it change how the brain works, but it can also damage cells. It can also increase the risk of other mental illnesses, such as anxiety and depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it's important to get help. In Orange County rehabpeople can focus on their dreams and get out of addictions. There are many treatment options, and with the right support, you can break your addiction and get your life back on track.

Brain and addiction

As the body's most complex organ, the brain can be elusive, especially from an addiction standpoint. The way it works is similar to a high-end computer. The brain is made up of cells called neurons which are arranged in circuits and networks. Neurons act as a kind of switch that supports the flow of information. When neurons receive signals from other neurons, they fire and send new signals. Each of these chains works together to achieve a goal. Every function you perform requires this neural network to function properly. At orange county rehab, the professional team helps in coming out of issues.The continued use/effects become compulsive and interfere with normal life tasks. such as work, relationships, or health. Users may not realize that their behavior is getting out of control and causing problems for themselves and others. One definition describes physical dependence. This is a biological condition in which the body adjusts to the presence of a drug so that the drug no longer has the same effect, also known as tolerance.To send messages, neurons release neurotransmitters into the gaps between the neural spaces. This neurotransmitter binds to receptors on other neurons. When this happens, the receiving cell changes. The reward system is responsible for creating pleasurable feelings in response to things that are good for you, such as eating or having sex. When both of these systems are active at the same time it can lead to a cycle of addiction. The reward system releases dopamine, the feel-good chemical. The stress system releases cortisol, a hormone that makes you feel bad. This combination creates a strong desire to continue using the substance or behavior.All of this is very important for understanding how addiction develops. Drugs complicate the process. They change how neurons send and receive messages and how they process neurotransmitter messages. In some cases, drugs activate neurons because they are very similar in structure to neurotransmitters.

Which part of the brain causes addiction?

When you experience something pleasurable, like eating a donut, your brain remembers that feeling and encourages you to do it again. When these complex systems intervene, changes occur in several areas of the brain:Basal ganglia: In this area of the brain important for positive motivation, drugs activate reward circuits. This area of the brain influences healthy and pleasurable activities. When drugs overact in these areas, they cause high. When this happens repeatedly, the reward circuit adapts to the drug. This means that without drugs, it is difficult to feel pleasure.Expanded Amygdala: This area of the brain processes fear and anxiety. This is usually where withdrawal symptoms appear when the drug wears off. Compulsive activity occurs in this area of the brain due to decreased impulse control.

You can gain control and improve brain function

The brain and addiction can be complicated, but help is available. Researchers have gained a better understanding of how the brain learns and changes. As a result, the brain can return to normal functioning with the right therapy, medications, and support structures. Here you will work to overcome the challenges you face with withdrawal and cravings as you work to address the root causes of addiction.

Are There Things That Can Trigger Addiction?

The exact cause of addiction is not known because every addiction is different. Addiction is a habit that rules your life. You can get addicted to almost anything, even sports or vegetables. When something gives you the such great pleasure that you seek it more and more, it's an addiction. There is a link between environment and addiction. Someone who grows up in a household with addicts is likely to be addicted even if they are not genetically related. Substance abuse can be a learned behavior. Common addictions are substances like alcohol, but you can also get addicted to television, video games, or other activities that stimulate the brain and make you habit-forming.