The Start of Addiction

People with an addiction have lost control over what they are doing, taking, or using. Their addiction may get worse and reach a point at which it is harmful for them. They may persist doing it in spite of the damaging effects on their health, career, family and relationships. Addiction exerts a powerful influence in the brain that shows in three ways: craving for the object of addiction, its uncontrollable use, and continuing involvement with it despite the consequences.

From Liking to Wanting

No one starts out aiming to develop an addiction, but many people get caught in its trap. Behavior plays an important role, especially when it comes to strengthening a habit. The brain registers all kinds of pleasure in the same way, whether it’s with a psychoactive drug, monetary reward, sexual encounter, or a satisfying meal.

Dopamine in the brain does not only contributes to the pleasure, but also plays a role in learning and memory; two elements in the transition from liking something to becoming addicted to it. Ranch Creek Recovery provides quality recovery treatment services to patients who are needing to overcome their addiction. Move forward in positivity with us.