A new scientific study from Vilnius University in Lithuania reveals how addiction deeply changes the brain, making recovery much harder than most people think. This study is based on over 25 years of research and gives new insight into how drugs affect brain function. The team was led by Professor Valentina Vengelienė at the Life Sciences Centre of the university.
Addiction happens when drugs like opioids, cocaine, or nicotine take control of the brain’s reward system. Normally, this system helps people feel joy from daily life activities such as eating, listening to music, or spending time with others. But when drugs are used, they release much more dopamine than normal. Over time, the brain gets used to this high level of dopamine and stops reacting to natural sources of pleasure.
As the brain adapts to this extra dopamine, it rewires itself to seek out the drug. This rewiring changes how a person thinks, feels, and acts. These changes can lead to the loss of self-control. People may start using the drug more often, even when they know it is harmful to their health, work, or relationships.
The study identified three common signs of addiction. One is a strong craving for the substance. Another is the inability to stay away from it. The third is ignoring daily duties or social roles. These signs show that addiction affects both the brain and behavior in a serious way.
Many people believe quitting is simply a matter of willpower, but the research shows that addiction is a brain disorder. The changes in the brain do not go away quickly. In many cases, they may last a lifetime. This explains why so many people relapse, even after they receive treatment. Experts say that addiction relapse rates are similar to those of other chronic diseases such as asthma or diabetes.
There are many reasons why recovery is hard. One reason is that people face triggers in daily life that remind them of using drugs. These triggers can include people, places, or even emotions. Another reason is withdrawal symptoms, which can cause pain, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. Mental health also plays a big role. Conditions like depression and anxiety often occur alongside addiction and can make recovery even harder.
The study also shows that both genetics and life experience affect addiction risk. Some people have genes that make them more likely to become addicted. Others may turn to drugs because of trauma, stress, or social pressure. People who start using drugs at a young age are more at risk because their brains are still developing.
Current treatment options include therapy, medication, and peer support. Some people benefit from medication-assisted treatment, which uses safe drugs to reduce cravings and ease withdrawal. Others may use therapy to manage thoughts and emotions. Digital tools, such as mobile apps, can also offer support for people in recovery. Still, experts say that more research is needed to create better treatments that match how the brain really works.
The team at Vilnius University hopes that their findings will help change how society views addiction. If people begin to see addiction as a brain disorder and not a personal failure, more people may feel safe to ask for help. Better public understanding can also lead to stronger prevention and care systems.
This research offers new hope to those who suffer from addiction. It also sends a clear message to policymakers, doctors, and the public: recovery is possible, but it requires science, support, and time
