Addiction & The Brain

When science began to study addictive behavior in the 1930s, people addicted to drugs were seen as morally flawed, weak or lacking in willpower. Those studying addiction did so under a cloud of myths and misunderstandings. Even now, treatment professionals continue to fight to have addiction seen as a disease, urging scientists to continue to explore the science of addiction.

Those early views of addiction shaped society's responses to drug abuse, making it harder than ever to focus on the science of the disease. Fortunately, those views are changing, and our responses to drug abuse has changed dramatically from those early years. Groundbreaking discoveries about the brain have revolutionized our understanding of drug addiction, enabling us to respond much more effectively to the problem.

Research Proves Addiction is a Disease

As a result of newer scientific research, we know that addiction is a disease that affects both the brain and behavior, says Nora D. Volkow, M.D. and director of the
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). She goes on to explain that scientists have identified many of the biological and environmental factors behind addiction, and they are beginning to search for the genetic variations that contribute to the development and progression of the disease. Moving forward, scientists will use this knowledge to develop effective prevention and treatment approaches that reduce the toll drug abuse takes on individuals, families and communities.

Addiction and Mental Health

If you or someone you love is battling an addiction paired with a mental health issue, call The Canyon at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.