Neurotransmitter systems are very important in how addiction forms. Here’s a closer look at some key players:
Dopamine: This is all about rewards. About 75% of people dealing with addiction have problems with dopamine's role in our brain’s reward system.
Serotonin: This helps control our mood and our impulses. When serotonin levels are low, people may turn to drugs or alcohol more often. This affects about 50% of individuals struggling with addiction.
Glutamate: This neurotransmitter plays a big part in cravings and relapses. Around 60% of people who are addicted have changes in glutamate signaling.
GABA: This one helps with self-control. About 40% of people addicted to opioids have issues with GABA.
In summary, problems with these neurotransmitters are a big part of what makes addiction so complicated.
Neurotransmitter systems are very important in how addiction forms. Here’s a closer look at some key players:
Dopamine: This is all about rewards. About 75% of people dealing with addiction have problems with dopamine's role in our brain’s reward system.
Serotonin: This helps control our mood and our impulses. When serotonin levels are low, people may turn to drugs or alcohol more often. This affects about 50% of individuals struggling with addiction.
Glutamate: This neurotransmitter plays a big part in cravings and relapses. Around 60% of people who are addicted have changes in glutamate signaling.
GABA: This one helps with self-control. About 40% of people addicted to opioids have issues with GABA.
In summary, problems with these neurotransmitters are a big part of what makes addiction so complicated.