Neuroscientific research has found that there are four central behaviors in the cycle of addiction:
- Positive reinforcement
- Negative reinforcement
- Impulsivity
- Compulsivity
For many individuals, the first experiment with substance use involves a trace of impulsivity, or acting without regard for any consequences. If the experience is enjoyable, this feeling positively reinforces the substance use, increasing the person’s likelihood of taking the substance again.
Another person may take a substance to relieve negative feelings such as stress, anxiety, or depression. In this case, the temporary relief the substance brings from the negative feelings negatively reinforces substance use, increasing the likelihood that the person will use again. Most importantly, positive and negative reinforcement shouldn’t be solely based on the effects of the drugs.
The positively reinforcing effects of substances tend to go away with repeated use. This is called tolerance, and can lead to use of the substance in larger amounts or more frequently; this is all in an attempt to experience the initial level of reinforcement. Eventually, in the absence of the substance, a person may experience negative emotions such as anxiety, stress, or depression, or feel physically ill. This is called withdrawal, which often leads the person to use the substance again to relieve the harsh symptoms.
As use becomes an ingrained behavior, impulsivity shifts to compulsivity, and the primary drivers of repeated substance use shift from positive reinforcement (feeling pleasure) to negative reinforcement (feeling relief), as the person seeks to stop the negative feelings and physical illness that accompany substance not to get “high,” but rather to escape the “low” feelings to which, ironically, chronic drug use has contributed.
Compulsively seeking out drugs or alcohol to continue using is a key characteristic of addiction. It’s why many of those struggling with addiction experience relapses after attempting to abstain from or reduce the use of their preferred substance. Compulsivity helps to explain why many people with addiction experience relapses after attempting to abstain from or reduce use.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
