Drugs, Gambling, Sex & the Brain

Understanding Addiction

Addiction is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects individuals across various aspects of their lives. To comprehend the science behind addiction, it is important to explore the brain's reward system, the impact of drugs on the brain, and the role of dopamine.

The Brain's Reward System

The brain's reward system plays a pivotal role in regulating emotions, motivations, and behaviors. It involves the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, in response to pleasurable experiences such as drugs, gambling, and sex. This release of dopamine reinforces the desire to repeat the behavior, creating a sense of pleasure and motivation.

Impact of Drugs on the Brain

Drugs, such as opioids, cocaine, and methamphetamine, can have a profound impact on the brain. Opioids, for example, flood the brain with dopamine, inducing a sense of euphoria, while stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine increase dopamine levels by blocking its reuptake [2]. These substances hijack the brain's reward system, leading to intense feelings of pleasure and reinforcing the desire to continue using the drugs.

The Role of Dopamine

Dopamine plays a crucial role in addiction. It is released in response to rewarding stimuli and helps to regulate motivation, pleasure, and reinforcement. Drugs, gambling, and sex can all trigger the release of dopamine in the brain, creating a sense of pleasure and reinforcing the desire to engage in these activities [1].

Repeated exposure to addictive substances or behaviors can lead to changes in the brain's reward circuitry. The brain becomes desensitized to the effects of dopamine, requiring more of the substance or behavior to achieve the same level of pleasure. This phenomenon, known as tolerance, contributes to the cycle of addiction.

Understanding the interplay between the brain's reward system, the impact of drugs, and the role of dopamine is essential in comprehending the science behind addiction. By unraveling these mechanisms, researchers and healthcare professionals can develop effective strategies for prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Addiction: Drugs, Gambling, and Sex

Addiction can manifest in various forms, including drugs, gambling, and even sex. Each of these behaviors has a profound impact on the brain, involving complex neurochemical processes. In this section, we will explore how drugs, gambling, and sex affect the brain.

Drugs and the Brain

Drugs, such as opioids, stimulate the brain's reward system by flooding it with dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. Opioids bind to specific receptors in the brain, triggering the release of dopamine and causing feelings of euphoria. Similarly, stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine increase dopamine levels by blocking its reuptake, leading to heightened stimulation and euphoria.

Long-term drug use can result in significant changes in the brain's structure and function. These changes can lead to difficulties in experiencing pleasure and motivation, and may result in mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The brain becomes dependent on the presence of drugs to feel normal, leading to addiction and a cycle of seeking and using drugs to maintain the desired effects.

Gambling and the Brain

When engaged in gambling, the brain releases a surge of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This dopamine release creates feelings of euphoria and excitement, contributing to the addictive nature of gambling. Additionally, other neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and serotonin are also activated, further intensifying the pleasurable experience.

People with gambling addiction may have lower levels of dopamine receptors in their brains, making it harder for them to experience pleasure from other activities. This can lead to a reliance on gambling as a primary source of pleasure, and individuals may engage in riskier behavior or bet larger amounts of money to maintain the same level of enjoyment.

Sex and the Brain

Engaging in sexual activities triggers the release of various neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin. Dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward, while oxytocin promotes bonding and social connection. Serotonin helps regulate mood and emotions. Together, these neurotransmitters create feelings of pleasure, connection, and satisfaction.

The release of dopamine during sexual arousal can contribute to the addictive nature of sexual behaviors. Dopamine activates the brain's reward system, reinforcing the desire for sexual experiences. However, it's important to note that while sexual behaviors can be addictive for some individuals, not everyone who engages in sexual activities experiences addiction.

Understanding the impact of drugs, gambling, and sex on the brain is crucial in comprehending the mechanisms behind addiction. These behaviors interact with the brain's reward circuitry, involving dopamine and other neurotransmitters. The pleasurable experiences associated with these activities can lead to cravings and compulsive behaviors, driving the cycle of addiction. By studying the underlying neurobiology, we can gain insights into effective strategies for prevention, treatment, and recovery.

The Neurobiology of Drug Addiction

Drug addiction has a profound impact on the structure and function of the brain. Prolonged substance abuse can lead to significant changes in the brain, affecting various aspects of an individual's life. In this section, we will explore the changes in brain structure and function associated with drug addiction, as well as the impaired pleasure and motivation experienced by individuals struggling with addiction. We will also discuss the co-occurrence of gambling and substance use disorders.

Changes in Brain Structure and Function

Long-term drug use can result in alterations in the brain's structure and function. Drugs such as opioids can flood the brain with dopamine, a neurotransmitter that induces feelings of euphoria. Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine, on the other hand, increase dopamine levels in the brain by blocking its reuptake [2]. These changes disrupt the normal communication between brain cells and can lead to long-lasting alterations in the brain's reward system.

Impaired Pleasure and Motivation

One of the significant consequences of drug addiction is the impairment of pleasure and motivation. Prolonged drug use can result in difficulties in experiencing pleasure from natural rewards, such as food or social activities. This disruption in the brain's reward system can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems [2]. Individuals may find it challenging to derive pleasure from activities that were once enjoyable, leading to a cycle of seeking greater drug-induced rewards.

Co-occurrence of Gambling and Substance Use Disorders

Gambling disorder and substance use disorder often co-occur at higher rates than would be expected by chance alone. This suggests shared genetic vulnerabilities between the two disorders. Both conditions are characterized by impaired control over consumption, continuation of the behavior despite adverse consequences, preoccupation with the behavior, and a tendency to relapse after periods of abstinence. Individuals with gambling disorder may have lower levels of dopamine receptors in their brains, making it harder for them to experience pleasure from other activities [4].

The co-occurrence of gambling and substance use disorders suggests common underlying mechanisms and shared neural pathways. Impairments in the prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and impulse control, are observed in individuals with both gambling disorder and substance use disorder [4]. These shared features highlight the complex interplay between addiction, gambling, and the brain's reward circuitry.

Understanding the neurobiology of drug addiction, including the changes in brain structure and function, impaired pleasure and motivation, and the co-occurrence of gambling and substance use disorders, is crucial for developing effective treatment approaches and interventions for individuals struggling with addiction. By addressing the underlying neural mechanisms, researchers and healthcare professionals can work towards helping individuals break free from the cycle of addiction and regain control over their lives.

The Effects of Addiction on Decision-Making

Addiction can have profound effects on decision-making processes within the brain. The prefrontal cortex, a region responsible for impulse control and decision-making, can be significantly impacted by addiction. This section explores the relationship between addiction and decision-making, highlighting the role of the prefrontal cortex, impulsivity in gambling and substance use disorders, and the structural changes that occur in the brain.

The Prefrontal Cortex and Impulse Control

The prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in decision-making and impulse control. It helps individuals weigh the potential risks and rewards of their actions, enabling them to make informed choices. However, chronic drug use can affect the prefrontal cortex, compromising its functioning and leading to impulsive and risky behaviors related to drug use. This impact disrupts decision-making processes and impulse control within the brain, contributing to the cycle of addiction [3].

For individuals with gambling disorder, the prefrontal cortex is also compromised, resulting in impaired control over behavior. Studies have found similarities between the compromised prefrontal cortex in individuals with gambling disorder and those with substance use disorder, suggesting a common neural basis for the impaired control seen in both conditions.

Impulsivity in Gambling and Substance Use Disorders

Impulsivity is a common characteristic observed in individuals with both gambling and substance use disorders. This impulsivity manifests as a lack of control over urges and a tendency to engage in behaviors without considering the potential consequences. The compromised prefrontal cortex, which is important for regulating impulsive behavior, contributes to this impulsivity in both disorders.

Structural Changes in the Brain

Addiction, whether it is related to drugs or gambling, can lead to structural changes in the brain. These changes are observed in key regions such as the mesolimbic dopamine system and the prefrontal cortex. The mesolimbic dopamine system, which is involved in reward and motivation, undergoes alterations that contribute to the addictive nature of both drug and gambling disorders.

Similarly, the prefrontal cortex shows structural changes in individuals with both gambling and substance use disorders. These alterations in the prefrontal cortex further compromise decision-making processes and impulse control. The structural changes observed in the brain contribute to the addictive nature of these disorders, making it challenging for individuals to break free from the cycle of addiction.

Understanding the effects of addiction on decision-making is crucial for developing effective interventions and treatment strategies. By targeting the prefrontal cortex and addressing impulsivity, it may be possible to restore healthy decision-making processes and improve outcomes for individuals struggling with addiction.

Rewiring the Addicted Brain

When it comes to treating drug addiction, it is essential to understand the concept of rewiring the addicted brain. Addiction can have a profound impact on the brain's structure and function, leading to compulsive behaviors and impaired decision-making. However, with the right treatment and interventions, it is possible to promote neuroplasticity and facilitate recovery.

Treatment for Drug Addiction

Treating drug addiction involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. There are various evidence-based treatments available, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), behavioral therapies, and counseling. The goal of treatment is to help individuals overcome their addiction, manage cravings, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

The specific type of treatment and its duration can vary depending on the individual's needs and the severity of the addiction. Factors such as withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and the presence of co-occurring disorders are taken into consideration when formulating a treatment plan. Seeking professional help from addiction specialists and participating in support programs can significantly increase the chances of successful recovery.

Neuroplasticity and Recovery

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections throughout a person's life. This concept plays a crucial role in the recovery process for individuals with drug addiction. With sustained abstinence and appropriate treatment, the brain has the potential to recover from the detrimental effects of drug abuse.

Factors that influence the time it takes to rewire the addicted brain include the type and severity of addiction, individual physiology, the effectiveness of addiction treatment, therapy, withdrawal symptoms, and cravings [3]. It is important to note that rewiring the brain is a gradual process that requires patience and commitment.

Exercise and Brain Function

Physical exercise has been shown to have significant benefits for brain function and cognition, making it a valuable component of addiction recovery. Research suggests that aerobic exercise, in particular, can improve executive functions and increase gray matter volume and activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain crucial for decision-making and impulse control.

Engaging in regular exercise can help individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) improve their overall well-being and reduce the risk of relapse. Acute effects of aerobic exercise have been linked to increased prefrontal cortex oxygenation, leading to greater inhibitory control, improved memory, attention, and processing speed in individuals with SUD.

By incorporating exercise into their recovery journey, individuals with addiction can harness the power of neuroplasticity and promote positive changes in brain structure and function. Alongside other treatment modalities, exercise can contribute to a comprehensive approach to rewiring the addicted brain and supporting long-term recovery.

The Pleasure Pathways of Sex

Sexual pleasure is a complex interplay of various biological and neurological processes. Understanding the pleasure pathways in the brain can provide insights into the physiological and psychological aspects of sexual experiences. This section will explore the role of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and oxytocin in sexual pleasure and bonding.

Neurotransmitters and Sexual Pleasure

Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that facilitate communication between neurons. In the context of sexual pleasure, two key neurotransmitters are involved: dopamine and oxytocin. Dopamine, a pleasure-inducing chemical, activates libido and plays a role in reward-motivated behavior. It is released by the brain in response to pleasure, which can be triggered by flirting or the anticipation of connecting with a partner. Oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, promotes deeper bonding between couples and is activated by touch, intimacy, and sex. It has anti-inflammatory and calming effects and is responsible for bonding between a mother and a newborn baby.

Dopamine and Sexual Arousal

Dopamine plays a crucial role in the preparatory phase of sexual behavior, such as sexual arousal, motivation, and reward. Activation of the brain's dopamine system triggers the release of this neurotransmitter, leading to increased sexual desire and anticipation. Dopamine receptors, specifically D2 and D4 receptors, have a significant impact on the pro-sexual effects of dopamine. Alterations in brain dopamine activity, whether induced by drugs or occurring naturally, can either enhance or impair sexual activity. Changes in central dopaminergic tone are believed to contribute to mental pathologies with abnormal sexual behavior.

Oxytocin and Bonding

Oxytocin plays a crucial role in bonding and intimacy. It is released during physical touch, sexual activity, and emotional connection. The release of oxytocin promotes feelings of trust, empathy, and affection between partners. This hormone not only strengthens the bond between couples but also has various physiological effects, such as reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation.

The interplay between dopamine and oxytocin during sexual experiences contributes to the pleasure and emotional connection associated with sex. While dopamine fuels sexual desire and arousal, oxytocin promotes bonding and intimacy. Together, these neurotransmitters play a vital role in shaping the pleasure pathways of sex.

Understanding the role of neurotransmitters in sexual pleasure provides valuable insights into the physiological and psychological aspects of human sexuality. The complex interplay between dopamine and oxytocin contributes to the pleasurable and bonding aspects of sexual experiences, highlighting the intricate nature of human sexuality.

The Intersection of Sex and Addiction

When exploring the science behind addiction, it is essential to understand the intersection of sex and addiction. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the brain's reward system, is also involved in sexual behavior. Dopamine is known to be involved in the preparatory phase of sexual behavior, including sexual arousal, motivation, and reward. The incertohypothalamic system, in conjunction with dopamine, is responsible for the consummatory aspects of sexual behavior, as well as sexual motivation PubMed Central.

Dopamine and Sexual Addiction

Dopamine has been implicated in both substance addictions and sexual addiction. In the context of sexual addiction, dopamine is believed to contribute to the rewarding and reinforcing nature of sexual behavior. Similar to how drugs of abuse can stimulate the brain's reward system, engaging in sexual activities can also trigger the release of dopamine, leading to feelings of pleasure and reward.

Similarities Between Sexual and Substance Addictions

While sexual addiction and substance addiction may manifest differently, there are notable similarities between the two. Both types of addiction involve dysregulation of the brain's reward system, with dopamine playing a significant role. In both cases, individuals may develop tolerance, experience cravings, and engage in compulsive behaviors to satisfy their addiction.

Impact of Dopamine on Sexual Behavior

Dopamine's impact on sexual behavior is multifaceted. Studies have shown that alterations in central dopamine activity can enhance or impair sexual activity, depending on the specific changes in dopamine levels. Dopamine agonists, which activate dopamine receptors, have been found to improve erectile function and enhance copulatory behavior in animal models PubMed Central.

Different dopamine receptor subtypes, particularly those in the D2 family (D2, D3, and D4), have been identified in brain areas involved in sexual behavior. Ongoing research aims to further understand the precise role of these receptor subtypes in sexual motivation, erectile function, and copulatory behavior PubMed Central.

By examining the intersection of sex and addiction, researchers can gain insights into the complex mechanisms that underlie both sexual and substance addictions. Understanding the role of dopamine and its impact on sexual behavior is a crucial step in deciphering the science behind addiction and developing effective treatment strategies.

Understanding the Brain's Reward System

The brain's reward system plays a crucial role in regulating emotions, motivations, and behaviors. It involves the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, in response to pleasurable experiences such as drugs, gambling, and sex. This section will delve into the role of dopamine in addiction, the impact of addiction on the brain's reward circuitry, and the development of cravings and compulsive behaviors.

The Role of Dopamine

Dopamine is a key player in the brain's reward system. It is involved in regulating feelings of pleasure, motivation, and reinforcement. When we engage in activities that are perceived as rewarding, such as using drugs, gambling, or engaging in sexual activities, dopamine is released, creating a sense of pleasure and reinforcing the desire to repeat the behavior.

In the case of drugs, different substances can impact dopamine levels in various ways. For example, drugs like opioids flood the brain with dopamine, inducing a euphoric feeling, while stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine increase dopamine levels by blocking its reuptake.

Addiction and the Reward Circuitry

Addiction occurs when the brain's reward system becomes dysregulated due to repeated exposure to addictive substances or behaviors. With continued exposure, the brain becomes less responsive to natural rewards and relies more on the artificial stimulation provided by addictive behaviors or substances. This rewiring of the reward circuitry contributes to the development of addiction.

Long-term drug use can lead to changes in the brain's structure and function. These changes can result in difficulties in feeling pleasure and motivation, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems [2]. Similarly, individuals with gambling disorder experience a dysregulation of the reward circuitry. Compulsive gambling activates the same brain pathways as drug addiction, triggering a release of dopamine and creating a feeling of euphoria. This can lead to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms akin to those associated with substance abuse disorders.

Cravings and Compulsive Behaviors

With addiction, the brain's reward system becomes sensitized to the rewarding effects of drugs, gambling, or sex. This heightened sensitivity leads to cravings, a strong desire to engage in the addictive behavior or consume the substance. Cravings can be triggered by various cues, such as environmental cues, stress, or emotional states. The desire to experience the pleasurable effects of the addictive behavior or substance becomes overwhelming, leading to compulsive behaviors aimed at obtaining the reward [1].

The cycle of addiction involves a continuous loop of sensitization to rewards, cravings, and compulsive behaviors. Despite negative consequences, individuals with addiction find it difficult to resist the allure of the addictive behavior or substance, perpetuating the cycle. This can lead to detrimental effects on various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and physical and mental health [1].

Understanding the brain's reward system, the role of dopamine, and the impact of addiction on the reward circuitry provides insights into the complexities of addiction. By unraveling these mechanisms, researchers and professionals can develop effective strategies for prevention, treatment, and support for individuals struggling with addiction.

The Impact of Drugs on the Brain

Drugs have a profound impact on the intricate workings of the brain. They interfere with the normal functioning of neurons and disrupt the communication between them. This disruption occurs through altered neurotransmission, the hijacking of normal communication pathways, and the impact on basic brain functions.

Altered Neurotransmission

Drugs have the ability to interfere with the way neurons send, receive, and process signals via neurotransmitters. Some drugs, such as marijuana and heroin, possess a chemical structure that mimics that of natural neurotransmitters in the body. This similarity allows these drugs to attach onto and activate neurons, albeit in an abnormal manner. Although these drugs mimic the brain's own chemicals, they do not activate neurons in the same way as natural neurotransmitters, leading to abnormal messages being sent through the network [8].

On the other hand, drugs like amphetamine or cocaine disrupt neurotransmission by causing neurons to release abnormally large amounts of natural neurotransmitters or by interfering with the recycling of these brain chemicals through transporters. This disruption amplifies or disturbs the normal communication between neurons, resulting in significant changes in brain activity and function [8].

Disruption of Normal Communication

Chronic drug use disrupts the intricate communication network within the brain. This disruption affects various regions and pathways involved in reward, motivation, and decision-making. The brain becomes hyper-focused on the effects of the addictive substance, leading to a narrowed attention span and reduced interest in other aspects of life. The brain becomes tricked into believing that survival depends solely on the addictive substance or behavior, reinforcing the cycle of addiction [3].

Brain Stem and Basic Functions

Certain drugs, such as opioids, have a direct impact on the brain stem. The brain stem controls essential functions critical to life, including heart rate, breathing, and sleeping. When opioids interfere with the brain stem, they can depress breathing and cause life-threatening situations, such as overdoses.

The impact of drugs on the brain is complex and far-reaching. It can affect various regions, disrupt neurotransmission, alter communication pathways, and even impact basic functions controlled by the brain stem. Understanding the intricate changes that occur in the brain as a result of drug use is crucial for developing effective interventions and treatment strategies for addiction.

The Cycle of Addiction

Addiction is a complex condition that involves a cycle of behaviors and experiences. Understanding this cycle can provide insight into the development and maintenance of addiction. The cycle of addiction typically involves three interconnected stages: sensitization to rewards, cravings and compulsive behaviors, and negative consequences and relapse.

Sensitization to Rewards

The brain's reward system plays a pivotal role in addiction. Pleasurable experiences, such as drugs, gambling, and sex, trigger the release of dopamine in the brain [1]. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating emotions and motivation.

With repeated exposure to addictive substances or behaviors, the brain's reward system becomes sensitized. This means that the brain becomes more responsive to the rewarding effects of drugs, gambling, or sex. Sensitization can lead to an increased desire for the behavior or substance, as the brain associates it with pleasure.

Cravings and Compulsive Behaviors

As sensitization to rewards occurs, individuals may experience intense cravings for the addictive behavior or substance. These cravings are driven by the brain's reward system and can be difficult to resist. The individual may feel a strong urge to engage in the behavior or consume the substance in order to experience the pleasurable effects again.

Cravings can lead to compulsive behaviors, where the individual feels compelled to engage in the addictive behavior or consume the substance, even in the face of negative consequences. The desire for the behavior or substance becomes overpowering, often overriding rational thought and decision-making.

Negative Consequences and Relapse

Despite the negative consequences that may arise from addictive behaviors or substance use, individuals caught in the cycle of addiction may continue to engage in the behavior or use the substance. Negative consequences can include physical and mental health issues, strained relationships, financial problems, and legal troubles.

Relapse is a common occurrence in addiction. It refers to the return to addictive behaviors or substance use after a period of abstinence. Relapse can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, environmental cues, and intense cravings. The cycle of addiction can perpetuate as a result of relapse, leading to a continuous pattern of addictive behaviors.

Understanding the cycle of addiction is crucial for addressing and treating addiction effectively. It highlights the need for comprehensive approaches that target each stage of the cycle, including prevention, intervention, and ongoing support. By addressing the underlying factors contributing to addiction and providing appropriate treatment and support, individuals can break free from the cycle and work towards recovery.

The Cognitive and Psychobiological Aspects of Gambling

When examining gambling behaviors, it is essential to understand the cognitive and psychobiological aspects that contribute to this addictive behavior. These aspects shed light on the distorted beliefs held by gamblers, the involvement of specific brain areas and neurotransmission, as well as the physiological arousal and environmental cues associated with gambling.

Distorted Beliefs and Illusion of Control

The cognitive approach to gambling behavior focuses on the distorted beliefs held by gamblers, which can contribute to the development and maintenance of addiction. Gamblers often overestimate their chances of winning and hold onto the belief that they have more control over the outcome than they actually do. This phenomenon is known as the illusion of control.

By overestimating their abilities and control over the game, gamblers may justify continued play and engage in risky behaviors. These cognitive distortions can lead to problematic gambling habits and contribute to the development of addiction.

Brain Areas and Neurotransmission

The psychobiological approach to gambling behavior explores the underlying brain mechanisms involved in addiction. Research has identified specific brain areas, such as the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) and striatum, that play a crucial role in reward processing and emotional responses [9].

Recent studies have shown anomalous recruitment of the brain reward system, including the vmPFC and ventral striatum, during common cognitive distortions in gambling games, such as the near-miss effect and the effect of personal control. These cognitive distortions may contribute to the continuation of excessive gambling behaviors [9].

Furthermore, alterations in dopamine neurotransmission have been linked to gambling addiction. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in reward and motivation, plays a significant role in reinforcing gambling behaviors and contributing to the development of addiction.

Physiological Arousal and Environmental Cues

Gambling is associated with physiological arousal, which can manifest as increased heart rate and elevated cortisol levels. Environmental cues, such as flashing lights and the chime of coins, become conditioned stimuli through Pavlovian processes. These cues can trigger arousal and motivation to engage in gambling activities.

In addition to arousal, gambling may also serve as a way to alleviate unpleasant states such as boredom, anxiety, or low mood. The excitement and anticipation of potential rewards can provide temporary relief from these negative emotions, further reinforcing the addictive nature of gambling.

Understanding the cognitive and psychobiological aspects of gambling helps to shed light on the complexities of addiction in the context of gambling behaviors. Distorted beliefs, brain areas involved in reward processing, altered neurotransmission, physiological arousal, and environmental cues all contribute to the addictive nature of gambling. By comprehending these factors, researchers and clinicians can develop effective strategies for prevention, intervention, and treatment of gambling addiction.

References

[1]: https://www.boldstepsbh.com/blog/drugs-gambling-sex-and-the-brain‍

[2]: https://www.townsendla.com/blog/drugs-gambling-sex

‍[3]: https://www.theedgetreatment.com/how-does-drug-rehab-rewire-the-brain-heres-how/

‍[4]: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/07/how-gambling-affects-the-brain

‍[5]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6718472/

‍[6]: https://www.livi.co.uk/your-health/6-health-benefits-of-sex/