Education Corner
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Brain Science 101: The Power of Neuro-Pathways (part 3 of a 4-part series)
by Jeannie Crowell

As we learned in the first two parts of our Brain Series, repeated use of drugs and activities that affect dopamine levels can change the brain structure and cause neurological (or "neuro-adaptive") changes. These neuro-adaptive changes strengthen new memory connections that are referred to as "neuro-pathways." These new pathways in our brain distort our cognitive and emotional functions and change our natural motivational control circuits. In effect, our brains are "hijacked" and the activity or substance we crave becomes the top motivational priority. Unfortunately, these fundamental changes in our brain are long lasting and are not easy to erase.

Many people still believe that addiction is failure of strength or will, but in reality, addiction is a bio-behavioral disorder. Even after a successful stint in treatment, we will still be battling the motivational priorities created by the addiction-induced neuoro-pathways. Changing the neuro-pathways can take months, even years. The brain also has to learn how to make dopamine on its own again, to replace the dopamine effect caused by the addictive behavior.

Given this information, it's easy to understand why relapse is common - even given the negative health and social consequences associated with the addictive behavior. The battle to not give in to cravings and to stay focused on setting up new neuro-pathways can create intense bouts of anxiety. We will literally wonder if we will survive. We may also experience severe depression given the depletion of dopamine in our brains. During this recovery process we're facing two battles: a biological battle (learning how to make dopamine naturally) and a behavioral battle (learning to cope with triggers and create a new lifestyle).

Fighting these battles is a daunting task for young adults. The process is compounded by the fact that as young adults, we're still developing discernment and impulse control. Thus the struggle to overcome compulsive and addictive behaviors is powerful and can feel overwhelming.

In our next issue, we'll conclude our Brain Series with a discussion about treatments. We'll talk about medical and natural treatments for compulsions, addictions, depression, anxiety, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

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