How can addiction be defined? NIDA, which is the National Institute of Drug Abuse has defined addiction as a ‘chronic relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences’. A chronic disease is one that is long lasting and can’t be cured, but it can be managed with treatment. Read More…
Drug Addiction and the Dopamine System
The brain plays a large role in addiction, largely focused on the dopamine system. Addictive drugs overstimulate the reward center of the brain which produces dopamine, creating a desire to keep using drugs or alcohol. Learn more about dopamine and the brain’s role in addiction. Neurons Neurons communicate with one another through the Read More…