drug and alcohol addiction

Addiction and Its Impact on the Brain: Previously believed to be a moral issue resulting from poor decisions, addiction is now widely acknowledged as a chronic, relapsing condition that entails changes to the brain that may last a lifetime. Addiction can cause the brain to adjust in a way that when drug use is decreased or halted, a person experiences withdrawal.  After a critical stage, the brain cannot handle the changes of sudden reduction or stoppage in the substance intake and often reacts drastically. As a result, a person with an addiction uses a substance or engages in a particular behavior for which the reward may provide a compelling incentive to repeat the activity. Getting sober is considerably more complex than just saying "no" to drugs because of the brain alterations brought on by prolonged substance use. Substance use is initially a choice made by the user, but when brain chemistry changes and addiction sets in, the user's capacity to manage their use decreases. What Parts of the Brain are Affected By Drugs and Alcohol? Substance use and abuse have a negative influence on three critical areas of the brain: The basal ganglia: The area that plays a significant role in the reward circuit and is responsible for developing routines and habits. The extended amygdala: The area that affects reliance and the discomfort and anxiety experienced after withdrawal. The prefrontal cortex: The area that is necessary for higher-order cognitive proce…