What is an addiction?

An addiction is a symptom of something. In much the same way a sore throat is a symptom of strep throat. 

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How do I know if I have an addiction?

An addiction is something that causes a problem. On a neurological level an addiction is when our reward pathway has been altered. 

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Will willpower alone reverse an addiction?

No, because the reward pathway in our brain has been changed and our brain wants the behavior as much as we do. In some cases, the brain has developed a reliance on or need to have the substance.

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Is Marijuana "good for you?"

The research does not support one answer over another. However, for an individual under the age of 27 it can be detrimental. The pre-frontal cortex is not fully developed until between the age of 25 and 27. The pre-frontal cortex is responsible for. 

• Speech formation (Broca's area)

• Gaze (frontal eye fields

• Working memory (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex)

• Risk processing (e.g. ventromedial prefrontal cortex)

• Regulating critical body functions such as movement, creativity, impulse control, emotional responses, moral behavior, fear responses, intuition, perseverance, and self-awareness.

• Planning and goal setting.

• Decision-making, problem-solving, intelligence, and emotion regulation

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If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please contact us by email newhope1340@gmail.com phone or text 303-833-0840.

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