Neurobiology_of_Addiction_Presentation

1.

The Neurobiology of Addiction
• Understanding the Brain's Reward System and
Recovery Models

2.

What Is Addiction?
• Addiction is when a person loses control over
using something that brings pleasure, even
when it harms them.
• It happens because the brain changes and
starts depending on that substance or
behavior.

3.

The Brain's Reward System
• • Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA)
• • Nucleus Accumbens
• • Prefrontal Cortex
• These areas control pleasure, motivation, and
decision-making.

4.

Dopamine: The Key Chemical
• Dopamine creates pleasure. Addictive
substances cause unusually high dopamine
levels, making the brain crave more.

5.

How Addiction Forms
• 1. First use → high dopamine
• 2. Repeated use → brain rewires
• 3. Tolerance develops
• 4. Withdrawal symptoms appear
• 5. Person continues despite harm

6.

Types of Addiction
• • Substance: drugs, alcohol, nicotine
• • Behavioral: gaming, gambling, social media
• Both types affect the same brain circuits.

7.

Risk Factors
• • Biological: genetics
• • Psychological: stress, trauma
• • Social: environment
• • Developmental: teenage brain is more
vulnerable

8.

Recovery Models
• • Medical Model: medications reduce cravings
• • Behavioral Model: CBT changes habits
• • Social Model: support groups and family
therapy

9.

Can the Brain Recover?
• Yes. With time, healthy habits, and support,
the brain can heal and rebuild pathways.

10.

Conclusion
• Addiction is a brain disorder. It affects reward
circuits, involves dopamine, and has effective
recovery methods.