1051-Addiction Counselor's Guide to the Neuroscience of Stimulants

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Introduction to Stimulants

Stimulants affect the neurological system by altering neurotransmitter levels.
Key neurotransmitters impacted include dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, glutamate, and acetylcholine.

Dopamine’s Role in Addiction

Dopamine regulates movement, motivation, and mood. It plays a major role in the brain's reward pathways, which can reinforce addictive behaviors.
Stimulants increase dopamine release, creating feelings of pleasure and reinforcing drug use.

Stimulant Effects on the Nervous System

Stimulants trigger the stress response, causing a release of norepinephrine, dopamine, and cortisol.
This results in heightened focus, energy, and mood regulation, but also leads to issues such as agitation and potential cardiovascular effects.

Tolerance and Dependency

Over time, the body can become tolerant to stimulants, requiring higher doses for the same effect.
Psychological and physiological dependency can develop, leading to withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and cravings.

Commonly Abused Stimulants

Caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, methamphetamines, and prescription ADHD medications like methylphenidate are among the most commonly abused stimulants.
These substances vary in potency and half-life, but all can cause significant neurological and physical effects when misused.

Withdrawal and Detox

Withdrawal symptoms from stimulants can include depression, irritability, fatigue, and drug cravings.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) may last for weeks or months, requiring ongoing support and monitoring during recovery.

Impact of Stimulants on Mental Health

Chronic stimulant use can lead to paranoia, anxiety, and even psychotic symptoms in some cases.
Long-term use also impacts the body's ability to regulate stress, contributing to systemic inflammation and reduced immunity.

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