The Science Behind Addiction and How Treatment Works
Understanding the Science of Addiction
Addiction is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower—it’s a chronic brain disease that alters how the brain functions. Repeated substance use affects the reward system, impulse control, and emotional regulation, making it difficult to quit without structured treatment.
How Addiction Changes the Brain
When a person uses drugs or alcohol, their brain releases large amounts of dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure and motivation. Over time, this artificial flood of dopamine rewires the brain, leading to:
Increased Tolerance, Dependence, and Withdrawal Symptoms
Effective addiction treatment works by restoring the brain’s balance, helping individuals regain control over their emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being.
How Drug Treatment Works: A Holistic, Science-Backed Approach
At The Barbell Saves Outpatient Center, we use a multi-faceted treatment approach to help individuals rewire their brains and rebuild their lives.
Evidence-Based Therapies
✔ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns.
✔ Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
✔ Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – Reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings for opioids and alcohol.
✔ Trauma-Informed Therapy (EMDR) – Helps process past trauma, which is often linked to addiction.
While these therapies are crucial, research shows that exercise and yoga significantly enhance addiction recovery.
Exercise as a Natural Treatment for Addiction
✔ Boosts Dopamine Naturally – Studies show exercise increases dopamine receptor activity, restoring the brain’s reward system.
✔ Reduces Stress & Cravings – Lowers cortisol (stress hormone) and decreases anxiety-related drug cravings.
✔ Improves Brain Function – Enhances memory, impulse control, and motivation, helping resist relapse triggers.
Yoga & Mindfulness for Addiction Recovery
✔ Reduces Cravings – Research in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that yoga significantly reduces substance cravings.
✔ Enhances Emotional Regulation – JAMA Psychiatry reports mindfulness-based therapy prevents relapse better than traditional counseling.
✔ Activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System – Improves stress response and impulse control, reducing impulsive behaviors.
Unlike traditional rehab, we integrate fitness and mindfulness into addiction treatment to heal both the body and mind. Our 72-hour IOP and outpatient programs help clients regain control over their health while providing the highest standard of clinical care.