The expression “wired” captures the intense state of vigilance and unease typically induced by stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine, which escalate heart rate, blood pressure and dopamine production, thus fueling a state of heightened activity and nervousness. Such sensations are not only linked to the immediate effects of drug use but may also surface during the initial stages of addiction recovery, manifesting as a mix of withdrawal signs and strong desires for the substance.
Stimulant drugs fundamentally alter brain communication by either imitating the body’s neurotransmitters or interrupting the standard process of neurotransmitter release and reuptake, resulting in distorted neural signaling. This disruption significantly affects important brain regions such as the basal ganglia, which are essential for motivation and experiencing pleasure; the extended amygdala, which is associated with the stress of withdrawal; and the prefrontal cortex, important for decision-making and impulse regulation. The alteration in these areas underlines the compulsive nature of drug seeking and the reduced ability to enjoy other aspects of life, emphasising the extensive impact of drug abuse on both brain operations and individual behaviors.
We Are All “Wired” To Be Addicts
Recent research challenges the traditional understanding of addiction by suggesting that cognitive and neurobiological predispositions towards addiction are common across both addicts and non-addicts. This perspective posits addiction as a universal disorder, underscoring that individuals without a history of substance abuse can also develop attentional biases that mimic those seen in addictive behaviors. Such biases emerge through conditioning processes, where even drug-free rewards can lead to responses analogous to those expected in substance relapse scenarios. This indicates a broader susceptibility within the human brain to addiction, driven by our natural response to reward cues, making the potential for addiction more widespread than previously acknowledged.
These studies highlight the significant role of both substance-specific and person-specific cues in triggering addictive behaviors and cravings. Person-specific cues, such as environmental or emotional associations with substance use, have a more profound and lasting impact on craving duration than the mere presence of substance-related paraphernalia. This insight into the mechanics of craving and relapse accentuates the complexity of addiction beyond physical substance dependence. It suggests that addiction involves a deeply rooted cognitive process, where attentional biases towards rewarding stimuli can lead to the hijacking of reward-driven neural mechanisms, complicating efforts to maintain sobriety and underscoring the need for a nuanced understanding of addiction’s triggers and effects.
Research highlights that both animals and humans can develop strong, conditioned responses to cues associated with rewards, leading to behavior that mirrors addiction. In experiments, animals trained to associate specific sounds with sugar water showed increased neuronal activity and binge-like behaviors upon hearing those sounds. This classical conditioning points to how external stimuli, whether related to food, drugs, or other rewards, can trigger intense and automatic reactions. The findings suggest that environmental cues can deeply influence our behavior by activating specific brain areas, demonstrating the power of conditioned triggers in driving addiction-like responses.
Building on this understanding, further studies have explored how attentional biases towards rewards affect both addicts and non-addicts, revealing a fundamental aspect of human cognition. The research indicates that the brain processes associated with directing attention to reward-predicting stimuli are similar across individuals, regardless of addiction history. This suggests a natural propensity towards developing addiction-like responses to various rewards, underlining the role of reward learning in shaping our attention and actions. These insights challenge us to recognise the automatic nature of these biases and the need to consciously address or modify them to prevent negative outcomes, highlighting the importance of awareness and intervention in managing our responses to reward cues.
“Slang terms like “wired” shed light on the experiences of drug users and the comprehensive effects drugs have on both physiology and psychology. Primarily linked with stimulant consumption, “wired” vividly describes the relentless alertness, unease and jitteriness directly caused by such substances. Stimulants push the body to its limits, significantly increasing heart rate, blood pressure and dopamine levels making calmness and relaxation elusive and perpetuating a cycle of constant stimulation and emotional upheaval.
Recent studies highlight that triggers specific to an individual’s experiences with alcohol or drugs, including certain people, locations, emotional experiences and states of mind, significantly contribute to relapse. The likelihood of successfully overcoming addiction often appears low. Nonetheless, advancements in understanding the neurological underpinnings of addiction could herald more effective treatment approaches. It’s pointed out that to adequately address addiction, it’s crucial to look beyond merely abstaining from drug use. The cognitive biases associated with addiction are not exclusively a result of substance use and stopping the use of drugs alone may not fully mitigate the allure of situations that could lead to a relapse. Effective treatment must therefore aim to modify these fundamental cognitive processes.
Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.
Our team, led by Gareth Carter, offers empathetic and professional support, guiding you through every step of the treatment process. Whether you're in South Africa or abroad, our acceptance of various insurance plans makes quality care accessible, providing a platform for lasting recovery and a healthier future.
Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
Mental Health
Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
Finding the right rehab close to you is simple with WeDoRecover. Our network includes the finest rehab centers, ensuring personalised, quality care for your recovery needs. Let Gareth Carter and our empathetic team help guide you to a center that feels right for you, offering expert care and support. Start your healing today by choosing a rehab that's not just close to you, but also that truly cares about your loved ones recovery.