Alcoholism and the Reward Pathway
become dependent on the alcohol or drug of choice to function normally. They can no longer produce or release neurotransmitters like dopamine without the presence of alcohol or the drug of choice. When alcohol or the drug of choice is not present in the system, then depression and withdrawal occur and the user returns to the drink or drug to bring neurotransmitters back to their normal level and provide them with relief. As other areas of the brain outside the reward pathway that control memory, learning and judgment become impacted, the user loses their ability to regulate self-discipline and good decision making. The user is now addicted or dependent to alcohol or their substance of choice
Although we’re talking about the relationship between the reward pathway and alcoholism in this article, this is the basic way that addiction to any substance or activity occurs. Successful recovery from alcoholism, or any addiction, can be achieved by restoring balance to the neurotransmitters with diet, nutritional supplements and lifestyle changes.
Cynthia Perkins, M.Ed., is a sobriety coach and a recovered alcoholic and drug addict with 21 years of uninterrupted and craving-free sobriety, and author of “Get Sober Stay Sober: The Truth About Alcoholism.” Learn more about the science of alcohol addiction and how you can achieve permanent, craving-free sobriety at Alternatives for Alcoholism.
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