Addictive behaviours have been described as one of the greatest scourages of humankind. In order to treat it, we have to first understand what courses it.
Many of us believe that when a person becomes addicted to a substance or behaviour, it is because he or she has no self-control or willpower. Dr Premkumar Shanmugam, an addiction specialist, is quick to state otherwise. “Addiction is a disease, just like cancer, diabetes or hypertension. Specifically, it is a disease affecting the reward system of the brain.”
When we do something that gives us pleasure, our brain releases a neurotransmitter or chemical called dopamine, sometimes known as the ‘feel good’ chemical. Substances such as alcohol and drugs are powerful reinforcers, setting off a powerful surge of dopamine in our brain. Our brain lays down memories of this sense of satisfaction, making us seek out the same feeling of pleasure in the future.
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