In a comprehensive study encompassing over 25 years of research, scientists at Vilnius University’s Life Sciences Centre have provided groundbreaking insights into the biological foundations of addiction.
Led by Professor Valentina Vengelienė, the research underscores addiction as a brain disorder influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, offering essential perspectives on why overcoming addiction is a hard journey for many.
At the core of the findings is the alarming way psychoactive substances, such as opioids, cocaine, and nicotine, hijack the brain’s natural reward system, overriding behavioural control and inducing changes within neural networks that cannot simply be reversed by willpower alone.
“When addiction develops, the brain undergoes irreversible changes that lead to a loss of behavioural control,” Vengelienė warns.
“Addiction can be identified through at least three prominent symptoms, including an intense craving for the substance, difficulties in abstaining and neglect of social responsibilities.”
Why do people consistently seek out pleasurable experiences?
Vengelienė points out that an intrinsic drive to enjoy pleasurable moments is not unique to humans, but also prevalent in various animal species.
However, humans benefit from a more permissive lifestyle, free from the constant needs of survival, which can make indulging in substances intoxicatingly tempting.
“The modern human doesn’t need to spend hours searching for food or evading threats, which allows indulgence in substances,” she explained.
The research delves into the mechanics of how the brain links specific cues, sights, sounds or smells with memories of rewards or dangers.
These connections can provoke cravings, even when one isn’t consciously seeking a substance. “The brain’s reward system is built to reinforce behaviours necessary for survival,” said Vengelienė, highlighting how neurotransmitters like dopamine play a pivotal role in creating strong associations for repeating certain actions.
She stresses that psychoactive substances activate the brain’s reward centres in a way that vastly exceeds natural stimuli, making them incredibly potent.
“Natural rewards control us, which is why sticking to a diet is a herculean task for many. For those with a genetic predisposition to addiction, this challenge becomes infinitely harder,” she shares.
In essence, the pleasurable feelings associated with substances can overpower instincts of self-preservation, distancing individuals from the realities of health risks and social responsibilities.
The research indicates a delicate balance between genetics and environmental factors in determining whether an individual will develop an addiction, with both factors contributing roughly 50% to the risk.
Vengelienė notes that an individual’s family history with substance use and the trauma experienced during childhood could potentially influence the likelihood of developing a dependency.
“Even exposure in the womb can affect the neural pathways that govern behaviour,” she adds.
Despite the awareness that not everyone who tries psychoactive substances becomes addicted, Vengelienė cautions against experimentation.
“Approximately 10 to 15% of individuals who experiment with drugs find themselves developing an addiction,” she says, highlighting the risks even in casual experimentation.
Recognising addiction involves assessing behavioural patterns such as a loss of control, inability to delay usage, and a loss of interest in usual activities.
Vengelienė indicates that long-term substance abuse leads to physical changes in the brain, particularly in areas that govern decision-making.
“These structural changes compromise an individual’s ability to control their addiction and navigate the repercussions of substance use,” she adds
She states that overcoming addiction isn’t solely about willpower. It requires a willingness to seek help and engage in a comprehensive recovery strategy that integrates social support.
“Social interaction serves as a crucial natural reward that can, under certain circumstances, outweigh the gains provided by addictive substances.”
However, she urges that a radical lifestyle change is paramount for recovery.
“The established routine of pursuing substances becomes ingrained, fundamentally altering brain structure and neural networks.”
Transforming such behaviours within the same environment is challenging, making it vital for individuals to seek supportive networks and constructive changes in their lives.
