Addiction. It haunts our cities, destroys families, and ruins lives. Addiction is defined as the “fact or condition of being addicted to a particular substance, thing, or activity” (thanks, Oxford). But what does this mean, exactly?
Well, it means that you become hooked on a particular stimulus, whether it be a positive or negative reality. You keep going back for more of whatever it is you’re addicted to. The most common examples, and what likely came to your mind is drug and alcohol addiction.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter– or, in simpler terms, a biochemical that sends signals from one nerve cell to another. Dopamine is particularly associated with schizophrenia, ADHD, depression, and, importantly, addiction. It’s the “pleasure transmitter,” meaning it makes you feel good. Levels too high can lead to aggression and poor impulse control (associated with schizophrenia, psychosis, and ADHD), where too low can lead to depression and suicidal thoughts (associated with depression). It’s important to maintain an inner balance, and it’s equally important to get this biochemical through healthy means such as enjoyable activities or healthy eating. However, dopamine is dangerous, because that “good feeling” can be addicting. In part, this is good– it’s what encourages you to continue healthy habits. But this addicting quality becomes a problem when dopamine is obtained through unhealthy means.
Drugs and alcohol both release dopamine in the brain. This is what makes them so addictive; that “good-feeling” is chased and chased, leading lives to be ruined. Additionally, these high-dosage releases of dopamine build tolerance, which means that more and more of whatever stimulus releases it is needed.
There are genetic reasons why people are predisposed to addiction, however; differences in the genes that affect the brain’s dopamine release system greatly impact the rate of addiction. Initial differing of the brain’s sensitivity to dopamine and release amounts allow for individuals to respond to addictive substances very, very differently. Additionally, personality plays a role.
Individuals with higher rates of impulsivity and poor decision-making skills tend to be more likely to develop addictions. Teenagers and young adults are also more likely to develop addictions because of this– they, especially teens, tend to have smaller frontal lobes, and therefore worse decision-making skills.
Addiction is dangerous, and awareness is important. Don’t roll your eyes during health as your teacher rattles off reasons to stay off drugs. Don’t scoff at your parents’ concern, or get angry when they don’t allow you to party. And most importantly: don’t shrug off your friend’s odd behavior– tell an adult. They will help
