Brain Changes in Addiction

1. Sensitization: Hyper reactivity to addiction related cues. Greater wanting but less liking
2. Desensitization: Number pleasure response. Tolerance: need for higher doses or greater stimuli
3. Hypofrontality: Weakened impulse control. Increases cravings.
4. Altered stress response: Minor stress leads to cravings/relapse. Responsible for many withdrawal symptoms.

To know if someone is addicted, use the Addiction Assessment