We still cling to outdated beliefs that addiction is a conscious choice and a moral failing, implying that those affected should simply muster the willpower to quit. In reality, medical science now recognizes addiction as a chronic, relapsing disorder of the brain. This understanding is supported by advanced imaging techniques such as fMRI and CT scans, which reveal significant neurological changes in individuals with addiction, particularly in the dopamine receptors, compared to those with healthy brains.
These findings highlight that addiction is far more complex than just a matter of willpower. The brain of someone with an addiction doesn't function like a typical brain; it processes risks and rewards differently. This altered neurobiology makes it incredibly challenging for individuals to make decisions in the same way someone without addiction would, underscoring the need for a compassionate and medically informed approach to treatment.
David I. Deyhimy is an addiction medicine specialist and anesthesiologist dedicated to helping those suffering from drug addiction and preventing overdose deaths from opioids.
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