Brain Basics
What chemical makes you feel good?
Dopamine
What is dopamine?
A feel good chemical in the brain
What is withdrawal?
Symptoms when stopping a substance
Addiction is a choice
False (addiction is a disease)
What system controls pleasure?
Reward system
Do drugs increase or decrease dopamine?
Increase
Name 1 alcohol withdrawal symptom
Tremors, sweating, anxiety, seizures (any one)
The brain can heal from addiction
True (the brain can heal)
True or False: Addiction affects the brain
True
What happens to natural dopamine over time?
It decreases naturally
Name 1 opioid withdrawal symptom
Body aches, diarrhea, vomiting, chills (any one)
Withdrawal means your body is trying to recover
True
What happens to the brain over time with substance use?
It changes/ becomes dependent on substances/ reduced natural dopamine
Why do normal activities feel less enjoyable?
Because the brain produces less dopamine
Why does withdrawal happen?
The body is trying to rebalance without the substance
Cravings are permanent
False (cravings pass)
Why does the brain depend on substances?
Because of repeated high dopamine from substances
What is the brain trying to do with repeated use?
To maintain balance (homeostasis)
Which withdrawal can be life-threatening?
Alcohol
Detox alone cures addiction
False (detox ≠ full recovery)