Ep 14. Learning Bad Habits: Addiction

As we grow and develop, we learn countless habits - some good, some bad. But how do we acquire habits, and what happens in our brains as we do so? In this episode of The Learning Brain, we take a closer look at the neuroscience behind addiction and how bad habits can take hold.

The episode begins with an exploration of the reward system in the brain, specifically the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dr. Indre Viskontas describes how dopamine acts as a signal for pleasure and how repeated exposure to pleasurable stimuli can lead to a reinforcement of certain behaviors. This can be a positive thing - for example, if we enjoy exercising, the release of dopamine after a good workout can reinforce the habit of regular exercise. However, it can also be a negative thing, as we see in the case of addiction.

Dr. Elliot Berkman, a neuroscientist at the University of Oregon, explains how addiction can be thought of as a hijacking of the reward system. When we engage in addictive behaviors - such as using drugs or gambling - our brains release a flood of dopamine, creating an intense feeling of pleasure. Over time, our brains become accustomed to this level of dopamine and require more and more of the addictive substance or behavior to achieve the same effect. This is known as tolerance.

The show then explores the cycle of addiction, from the initial pleasure-seeking to the eventual loss of control over the behavior. Through interviews with recovering addicts and experts in addiction treatment, we learn about the devastating effects addiction can have on one's life and relationships.

However, the episode also emphasizes that addiction is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower - it is a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, describes how addiction can change the brain itself, making it harder for individuals to control their behavior even if they want to.

The episode also discusses the concept of "cue-induced craving," in which certain stimuli - such as the sight of a drug or the sound of a slot machine - can trigger intense cravings in individuals with addiction. This can make it difficult for them to resist the temptation to engage in the addictive behavior.

Throughout the episode, the experts emphasize the importance of early intervention and prevention when it comes to addiction. By understanding the brain mechanisms behind addiction, we can develop more effective treatments and strategies for addiction prevention.

Overall, this episode of The Learning Brain provides a fascinating and informative glimpse into the science of addiction and how it affects our brains. Through interviews with experts and personal stories, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexity of addiction and the challenges faced by those who struggle with it.