When scientists began to study drug addiction in the 1930s, they were already operating under many misconceptions and misunderstandings. For one thing, at that time, drug addiction was considered a weakness in a person’s moral character rather than the health problem that it actually is.
However, while it is true that most people make a voluntary choice to drink for the first time, or experiment with drugs, the fact remains that addiction does physically alter the brain, changing both the structure of the various parts of the brain and how they function. And, it is these alterations that can cause addiction.
One way in which drugs alter the brain’s structure and function is by releasing higher levels of dopamine than normal. Dopamine is a natural neurotransmitter released by the brain at certain times. This chemical provides the brain with a sense of reward or pleasure, which in turn leads it to repeat the behavior in an effort to continue receiving that feeling.
The main difference is that with drug use, an overproduction of dopamine occurs. The good feelings are enhanced to a higher degree than normal; however, when the drug wears off, the “letdown” is also more intense. It is this circumstance that can lead to drug addiction, as the person seeks to recapture the “high” initially felt. This in turn may lead to higher and higher amounts of the drug being used.
Understanding how the brain reacts when drugs are taken helps us to formulate a holistic drug rehabilitation program that will provide the most success. The program includes replacing vitamins and nutrients that have been lost or depleted due to drug abuse.
This is done by performing a hair sample test on all clients who enter a drug treatment program at our facilities. The test lets us determine exactly which foods should be given to our clients to help restore the lost nutrients, and which vitamin supplements are needed to ensure continued good health.
In some instances, however, the changes effected by drug abuse and addiction are long lasting. They may remain even after a person has stopped taking drugs. This is why people, even those who are or have been in a drug rehab program, sometimes relapse, and begin taking drugs again.
While we hope that the treatment received at our facilities enable a person to remain drug-free, we do offer relapse treatment. Those who are seeking help for the first time for addiction, and those who have unfortunately suffered a relapse can find help by visiting our website at http://www.holisticdrugrehab.com/ or calling 1-800-559-9503.
