As you might imagine, there is a lot of depth to these diseases that cannot be briefly illustrated here. However, I desire to offer some information that may be insightful and helpful.  For simplicity sake, I will mostly use alcoholism as the main example, because it is the most prominent and claims the most lives. However, the same and or similar/concepts apply to various drug addictions and biochemistries.

 

For example, allow me to illustrate why some people progress to alcoholism and others do not. When a person is born, their biochemistry either predisposes them to alcoholism, or it doesn't.  When those without a predisposition to alcoholism consume alcohol, their body eventually expels all of the toxic waste. However, when a person with the predisposition for alcoholism consumes alcohol, the body is unable to eliminate all of the toxins. What remains of the toxins is eventually converted into a substance called THIQ (TetraHydroIsoQuinoline). This THIQ is stored in the brain forever; it is never eliminated or expelled. THIQ binds to serotonin receptor sights, and signals to the body that it does not need to produce serotonin. Again, THIQ remains in the brain forever, and more is stored in the brain with every sip of alcohol. As more THIQ accumulates, less serotonin is produced; and the less serotonin that is produced, the more the person attempts to boost serotonin with another drink.  Thus caught in a vicious cycle. Then, when the amount of THIQ in the brain breeches a threshold,  and the amount of serotonin too low, the desire for a drink becomes the need for a drink.  This is not just to numb physical, mental, or emotional pain; this is to keep the body alive.

 

Most people associate serotonin with sleep and “feeling good”. However, there is far more to serotonin. Among other things, it is heavily involved in the regulation of our heart and blood pressure. This is why an alcoholic who is actively drinking has a great possibility of dying when alcohol is suddenly withdrawn.  An alcoholic must seek care from a professional when coming off of alcohol, lest the possibility of death becomes a real threat. This is why the next drink comes before all basic necessities of life (water, food, shelter, etc). Therefore, what compels them to drink is not just a decision or a choice; it is their innate attempt to survive. 

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Most people with alcoholism/addiction, were born with a brain that works differently (such as an overactive amygdala). An overactive amygdala is associated with heightened fear response, anxiety, inability to think clearly, etc...This not only affects other parts of the brain, but feelings, emotions, and the physical body as well.  As you might imagine, an overactive amygdala is also associated with anxiety, depression, and other mental struggles/illnesses that a person might experience even before alcoholism manifests. 

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Let's also take a look at how nutrient deficiencies play a role in alcoholism:

 

D-Phenylalanine Deficiency- extra sensitivity to emotional and physical pain; heroin and marijuana addiction, alcoholism

L-Tyrosine Deficiency- depression and Attention Deficit Disorder; Cocaine addiction, alcoholism

L-Tryptophan Deficiency- Obsessive/compulsive problems, fibromyalgia; marijuana and ecstasy addiction, alcoholism

GABA Deficiency-stress/nervousness; valium addiction, alcoholism

L-Glutamine Deficiency- stress, mood swings; alcoholism

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These deficiencies are also associated with other food and substance addictions, and there are ways to address these in a balanced manner. 

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Again, there are many factors and much depth involved in alcoholism/addiction. Too many to mention here, and we still have yet to fully understand this baffling and tormenting disease.  However, there is hope and you are not powerless!  There is recovery and progress to be made, in a harmonious manner that considers all that makes you whole (body, mind, soul, and spirit).

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