In our first blog, we explored addiction from a psychological perspective, looking at how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors contribute to the development of addiction. Now, let’s take a closer look at the physiological side of addiction—how it develops in the brain and body, and why it becomes a progressive cycle that’s difficult to break.
The Brain and Addiction: A Cycle of Dependence
Addiction is a disease that alters brain function. At its core, it affects the brain’s reward system, which releases dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. When substances like drugs or alcohol are introduced, they cause an unnatural spike in dopamine levels, leading to intense but quickly fleeting pleasure. However, over time, the brain becomes dependent on these substances to feel normal, reducing its natural dopamine production in the process.
As tolerance builds, a person needs more of the substance to achieve the same effects. This leads to dependence—both physical and emotional. When someone tries to stop using, withdrawal symptoms—like anxiety, depression, irritability, and even physical discomfort—can arise, which pushes them back into the cycle of use.
While addiction is commonly associated with substances like alcohol and drugs, it’s important to recognize that addiction can take many forms. As we discussed in the first blog, addiction can also involve behaviors like video game addiction, gambling, or other excessive habits. These types of addiction may not involve substances, but they still trigger the same reward pathways in the brain and can lead to similar cycles of dependency, anxiety, and depression.
Gosnold’s Comprehensive Approach to Treatment
At Gosnold, we recognize that addiction is a complex disease affecting both the brain and body. That’s why our treatment approach addresses all aspects of recovery—physiological, psychological, and emotional.
- Detoxification: Our medically supervised detox program helps individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms, allowing their bodies to stabilize and begin recovery.
- Inpatient Treatment: Our inpatient programs provide 24/7 care, combining therapy and medical support to break the cycle of addiction and help clients rebuild their lives.
- Outpatient Services: For those transitioning back into daily life, our outpatient programs offer continued support, counseling, and relapse prevention strategies.
- Dual Diagnosis: Many individuals struggle with both addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders like anxiety or depression. Our dual diagnosis treatment helps address both issues simultaneously, offering a holistic approach to healing.
- Family Support: We also offer family therapy and education, recognizing that addiction affects not just the individual, but their entire support system.
Addiction is a disease, not a moral failing. At Gosnold, we are dedicated to ending the stigma surrounding addiction and providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment. By understanding that addiction affects both the mind and body, we can offer the support necessary to break free from the cycle and rebuild a life of recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, whether its substance use or behavioral addiction, contact Gosnold today. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of the recovery journey.
