Mike Lim

The consequences of the alterations in dopamine signaling we observed may be numerous. Neurobiologically, striatal dopamine alters intracellular signaling that affects synaptic plasticity 42. In addition, D2 receptors can alter striatal dopamine and acetylcholine levels and inhibit cortical glutamatergic transmission directly or indirectly 60,61,62. Furthermore, the balance of altered dopamine changes and subsequent effects on …

Social Drinking Activates Dopamine and Elevates Mood Read More »

A person becomes an enabler through a combination of psychological, emotional, and relational factors. Enabling typically arises from a deep-seated desire to protect or support a loved one, often leading to behaviors that inadvertently perpetuate harmful actions. Enablers are often motivated by a complex interplay of care, fear, and personal needs, which are intensified by …

Enabler: 9+ Signs of Enabling Behavior Read More »

If you’re worried about a loved one’s drinking habits, you may want to think about doing an intervention. This is a face-to-face talk where you’ll lay out examples of their harmful behavior and suggest a specific treatment plan. You, and everyone else who’s present, will also share what you’ll do if the person refuses to …

Alcohol Use Disorder: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment Read More »

This may be done at home or in a medical facility, depending on the substance and severity of withdrawal. If you regularly take an addictive substance, reach out to a healthcare provider for advice before stopping. If consumed daily, some individuals may develop a condition known as caffeine dependence syndrome. If caffeine consumption is stopped …

Opiate and opioid withdrawal: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Read More »

Conversely, a return to the target behavior can undermine self-efficacy, increasing the risk of future lapses. Outcome expectancies (anticipated effects of substance use; 27) also figure prominently in the RP model. Additionally, attitudes or beliefs about the causes and meaning of a lapse may influence whether a full relapse ensues. Viewing a lapse as a …

Countering The Abstinence Violation Effect: Supporting Recovery Through Relapse Read More »

In a seminal review, Schuckit and Hesselbrock (1994) noted that the frequency of alcoholism among anxiety patients was not markedly higher than in the general population, contrary to what would be predicted by the self-medication hypothesis. In contrast, some studies have found greatly elevated rates of anxiety disorders in samples of individuals with alcohol problems …

Anxiety and Alcohol: Is There a Connection? Read More »