Addiction and the human brain
This time of the year – also known as silly season – often sees a rise in alcohol and drug abuse. We touched base with Brain Harmonics – who specialises in neurofeedback training – for a more comprehensive understanding of addiction, a pervasive and intricate issue worldwide.
Drugs and alcohol’s impact on the brain leads to enduring changes in neural circuits and behaviour, underscoring the urgency of innovative treatment approaches. As the festive season approaches, understanding the intricacies and how to intervene with this illness is crucial -whether it’s for self-help or to support loved ones.
Kerry Rudman, owner and founder of Brain Harmonics says: “The human brain, a remarkable and intricate organ central to thoughts, emotions and behaviours, undergoes profound disruptions from drugs and alcohol, resulting in addiction. Understanding this brain connection is vital to combatting this global public health crisis.”
In the realm of addiction, the brain functions like a radar system, constantly seeking equilibrium among chemicals and neurotransmitters. The quest for chemical balance becomes a fundamental aspect of the brain’s role in addiction.
Beta-endorphins and alcohol craving
Beta-endorphins, natural opioids or “feel-good” chemicals, play a pivotal role. In fact, a deficiency in beta-endorphins can lead to discomfort and anxiety, driving the brain to seek substances like alcohol. Alcohol consumption triggers the release of beta-endorphins, temporarily alleviating negative feelings and reinforcing the cycle of addiction.
Dopamine and methamphetamine addiction
Methamphetamine addiction intertwines closely with the brain’s dopamine system, responsible for pleasure and reward. While methamphetamine use induces euphoria by significantly increasing dopamine release, the chronic use thereof depletes natural dopamine reserves. This deficiency becomes a driving force for addiction, as the brain craves the intense pleasure associated with the drug.
“In both scenarios, addiction emerges as the brain attempts to rectify chemical imbalances created by drug use, perceiving the substance as a solution to discomfort or lack of ‘feel-good’ chemicals,” Rudman says. “Understanding this radar-like mechanism underscores the importance of addressing addiction’s root causes, often rooted in neurotransmitter imbalances. Comprehensive treatment, including therapies like neurofeedback, becomes vital in regaining control over the brain’s chemical balance and curbing addiction reinforcement.”
In the pursuit of tackling addiction at its neurological roots, neurofeedback is a promising approach. Ultimately, it is a non-invasive technique that empowers individuals to gain better control over their brain activity. Finally, it offers hope for those seeking recovery from addiction by rewiring neural pathways.
How does neurofeedback contribute to addiction recovery?
Personalised treatment
Commencing with a thorough assessment of your brainwave patterns, neurofeedback tailors treatment to address specific neurological challenges. That ensures a highly individualised approach.
Normalisation of brain function
Substance abuse often leads to irregular brainwave patterns. Hence, neurofeedback provides real-time feedback on brainwave activity, facilitating correction and the reestablishment of healthier neural pathways.
Craving reduction
Managing cravings is one of the most significant hurdles in the journey to recovering from addiction. Essentially, neurofeedback targets brain areas linked to impulsivity and desire, which assists in reducing the intensity and frequency of cravings.
Emotional regulation
Substance abuse can lead to irregular emotions. So, neurofeedback can help you to regain control over your emotions by enhancing the brain’s self-regulation capacity. Ultimately, this results in improved emotional stability.
Enhancement of cognitive function
Addiction’s impact on cognitive functions like decision-making and impulse control can be moderated through neurofeedback. The therapeutic approach aims to strengthen corresponding neural circuits, enhancing cognitive abilities.
Long-term recovery
Addressing addiction’s root causes on a neurological level, neurofeedback offers a path to sustained recovery. In turn, this equips you with tools to resist relapse and to effectively cope with life’s challenges.
Don’t let this season be a silly one. If you or a loved one are grappling with addiction, delving into the transformative potential of neurofeedback may provide a beacon of hope.
For more wellness-related content, click here.
Follow us on Instagram here.
Read our digital magazine here.
