- The chemicals in alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana look similar to those produced naturally by our brains.
- These chemicals can bind to the same receptors in the brain but cause bigger and longer effects.
Alcohol and other drugs are counterfeit rewards.
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Working hard at something releases the natural chemicals found in the brain's reward system. Alcohol and marijuana are a "counterfeit", a shortcut to a natural high. The brain implants these memories causing craving, addiction, and permanent changes in the brain.
Compared to the a non-drinker, the brain of a drinker shows:
- Less brain activation during a working task.
- Fewer correct responses on a working task.
- Using drugs can have an impact on the brain long after a person has stopped using the drug.
- Brain scans of former ecstasy users are less active then those of people who have never used ecstasy.
