Physiology

When a neurotransmitter like dopamine is consistently released in significant amounts within the brain, the system makes alterations to account for these increase number amounts. The system will automatically make adjustments to achieve a state of balance. Levels of neurotransmitters that have the opposite effect of dopamine will be increased and so will your tolerance to the addicted substance.

Over time, structural changes can occur in the brain, changing the number of pleasurable feelings one has during social interactions or even hobbies. This will then lead the person in search of a stronger “pleasurable feeling” often being an increase in substance abuse or change to a stronger more potent drug/ substance.

Substance abuse can affect almost every system in your body, from learning to decision making. It can hinder a person’s speed of thinking and the ability to think rationally. Depending on substance abuse, one could suffer from many diseases and even develop cancer, ultimately destroying your body and its functions (or organs affected).