Serotonin is linked to the brain’s reward system and can have an influence over impulsivity, emotions, and stress in the body. Having just the right balance of serotonin is important for overall brain function, which is why it can play a role in addiction. When dysregulation of serotonin is present, individuals are more susceptible to substance abuse and risky behaviors. This blog will look deeper into how serotonin comes into play with those struggling with addiction.
The Difference Between Serotonin And Dopamine
Serotonin and dopamine are both neurotransmitters that have their own distinct roles. Serotonin is responsible for mood stabilization and emotional regulation, while dopamine drives our reward response and controls movement and motivation. While they are often connected together and have similarities, they both have distinct roles when it comes to daily life.
Where Is Serotonin Produced?
One of the biggest differences is where these neurotransmitters are produced in the brain. Serotonin is produced in the brainstem and gastrointestinal tract, while dopamine is produced in the substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area of the brain. The central nervous system is responsible for producing serotonin, but most of it is found outside of the CNS (central nervous system). Serotonin is produced and released at different stages, including:
- Action potential
- Exocytosis
- Receptor binding
- Reuptake
- Metabolism
These phases have to work together in order for the body to avoid imbalances and have a properly functioning nervous system.
The Connection To Addiction
Since serotonin is connected to the reward and mood regulation part of the brain, serotonin is deeply connected to addiction. Serotonin and dopamine pathways can interact to reinforce drug and alcohol effects. Many studies have shown that serotonin overlaps with the effects found in opioids, psychostimulants, and alcohol. Here are more roles that this neurotransmitter plays in addiction.
Mood Regulation
The primary role of serotonin is to regulate mood and maintain stability. When it is dysregulated, people could be more susceptible to risky behaviors and seek something that mimics serotonin. Dysregulation can cause depression, irritability, and anxiety, which are often precursors to substance abuse and addiction. Seeking multiple reward-seeking behaviors and activities that will compensate for that lack of emotional regulation.
Impulse Control
Your decision-making is regulated by serotonin, so risky behaviors may be heightened when it is low. Compulsivity will increase if you have dysregulated serotonin, which can worsen addiction symptoms, making it difficult to get sober and break the cycle.
Withdrawal Effects
Misusing drugs can suppress serotonin activity, causing a vicious cycle of seeking a higher mood and limiting discomfort. Without optimal serotonin production, addicts will experience more withdrawal symptoms than those who just have dysregulated serotonin.
Cravings And Dependence
Without the help of serotonin to balance the brain’s reward system, compulsive behaviors, dependence, and cravings will increase. Since drugs and alcohol mimic the chemical reaction of serotonin, this is what creates dependency on these substances. Seeking a mood boost is often why people take part in drugs and alcohol, which can escalate into compulsive consumption. Once someone is addicted to a substance, they are dependent on its availability and chemical reaction before they can do anything else. This dependence can affect every aspect of your life and health, causing problems with work, relationships, social activities, and spending.
How Serotonin Affects Addiction Recovery
Balancing your serotonin levels will help stabilize mood, impulses, and emotions. Healthy levels will also help you have better sleep, reduce anxiety, and have a better sense of stability. Individuals will be better able to manage triggers and stressors without the help of drugs and alcohol. When you have compulsive behaviors, regulating dopamine and serotonin levels can help make addiction recovery easier. Managing your symptoms and triggers will help you avoid relapse and help you on the road to recovery.
Addiction Help With Red Willow Counseling And Recovery
Red Willow specializes in addiction recovery, using a mix of therapy, intervention, support groups, and inpatient treatment. No matter what addiction you are struggling with, our professionals handle all situations with care, helping you to build healthier habits and reduce shame. While the addiction rates continue to rise, we know that going through the recovery process has changed many lives and works for many people who want to live a healthier life.
In addition to our addiction recovery techniques, we also offer therapy for mental health issues, grief, and other emotions that may come with addiction. Therapists can work alongside our other medical professionals to ensure you are getting well-rounded treatment. We offer individual, group, family, and couples therapy at all of our locations. Contact us to learn more about our offerings, payment, and find additional helpful resources on our website.
