The human brain is a marvel of biology, and one of its most fascinating components is the reward system, which is essential for our survival as it motivates us to engage in activities that are beneficial to us, such as eating, socializing, and reproducing.

When we engage in these activities, our brain releases neurotransmitters—dopamine being one of the most important—that make us feel pleasure and satisfaction. However, this same system can be responsible for the trap of addictions.

It is a set of neural circuits that are activated when we experience something pleasurable. It not only reinforces positive behaviors but can also be altered by the consumption of psychoactive substances.

When a person uses drugs, the release of dopamine can be up to 100 times greater than in normal situations, resulting in an intense feeling of euphoria. However, this dopamine overload can lead to desensitization of the system, making everyday activities no longer produce the same level of pleasure.

Addiction is not simply a choice; it is a learned behavior. Through substance use, people associate the use of these substances with immediate rewards. Over time, the brain learns that drug use is the only way to achieve that level of pleasure, leading to a cycle of compulsive use.

Despite the negative consequences that can arise—such as health problems, deteriorating relationships, and financial difficulties—the person continues to seek out the substance, remembering only the pleasure once experienced.

One of the saddest realities of addiction is that, over time, the pleasure obtained from use diminishes: The first time a person uses a substance, the experience may be incredibly pleasurable, but as use is repeated, the person needs to increase the dose to try to recapture that initial feeling, creating a cycle of tolerance where the pleasure becomes less lasting and the consequences become increasingly harmful.

For those in recovery, it is essential to remember the suffering and negative consequences that substance use has brought into their lives. This reflection helps associate use with painful experiences, which can be a powerful motivator to avoid relapse.

In rehabilitation centers, activities are focused on fostering this awareness, helping individuals reconnect with their pain and reconsider their relationship with substances.