How does the brain change during addiction?
In a person who becomes addicted, brain receptors become overwhelmed. The brain responds by producing less dopamine or eliminating dopamine receptors—an adaptation similar to turning the volume down on a loudspeaker when noise becomes too loud.
Which part of the brain is most responsible for controlling impulses and making decisions?
The frontal lobe is the part of the brain that controls emotions. The frontal lobe controls character, decision-making and reasoning, while memory, speech and sense of smell are controlled by the temporal lobe.
Are You a victim of manipulative behavior in addiction?
Families and loved ones of people dealing with addiction are often the victim of lies, threats, and other patterns of manipulative behavior. They want to help, out of love and compassion, but are concerned about being taken advantage of.
Are You an enabler of manipulative behavior?
There are several forms that classic manipulative behavior can take. All of these can be persuasive, and a loved one may try to justify or accept any of them, but soon enough, by acquiescing to these demands, you become an enabler, helping with addiction and a cycle of relapse.
Can an addiction take over the brain?
It is, if not medically, and least metaphorically correct to say that the addiction has taken over the brain, in the same way a hijacker would, and has started to issue a series of demands, all based around the same imperative: more of the substance. In Kelly’s case, this was painkillers, but it can be same for any other addiction.
What neurophysiological processes are involved in the development and progression of addiction?
Despite the prevalence and long history of addiction, it is still not clear what neurophysiological processes are involved in the development and progression of addictive disorders.