Is addiction a lack of will power or a brain disorder?
Society historically has viewed addiction as a moral weakness and failing, and that perspective remains despite a wealth of recent scientific research. Although the first drink or injection may be voluntary, researchers have found that the continued use of a mind-altering substance literally alters brain function. Alcohol and other drugs not only interfere with normal brain function by creating powerful feelings of pleasure, but they also have long-term effects on brain metabolism and activity. Addictive substances can damage the frontal cortex, the part of the brain that enables us to control our actions. The addicted person may realize that continued drug use will have severe adverse consequences, but is unable to stop. Because addiction is so tied to the body’s physiology, treatment professionals and researchers now consider alcoholism and drug addiction as chronic, relapsing conditions, much like disorders such as hypertension, diabetes and asthma. In groundbreaking research, resea
