The University of Queensland in Australia explains that the limbic system is, “…Part of the brain involved in our behavioral and emotional responses, especially when it comes to behaviors we need for survival; feeding, reproduction, and caring for our young, and fight or flight responses.”
The limbic system is greatly responsible for the way we react, how we’re motivated and what reinforces our behaviors; there are two main parts of the limbic system that we should take note of:
- Subcortical Structures – the olfactory bulb, hypothalamus, amygdala, etc.
- Portions of the Cerebral Cortex – the hippocampus, orbital frontal cortex, insular cortex, etc.
It’s clear that the limbic system plays a major role in our daily lives, but how is it impacted by addiction? In 2018, Louis Teresi, MD, explained on Brain World Magazine, an online source that publishes information related to health, that the limbic system is stimulated with substances like drugs or alcohol are consumed. Parts of the limbic system that affect the way we respond to rewards and motivation – such as the amygdala, make it much more difficult to recover from the “high” effects of euphoria that are experienced. The limbic system has a lot of power over cognition and behavior in the brain, but those communication systems become disrupted when substances alter the structure and process of it all.
Limbic cravings lead to addiction thinking and behavioral patterns – and this harmful, negative cycle will continue unless a person seeks professional help. If you or a loved one are ready to overcome the chains of addiction, speak with someone from Alta Loma today – recovery is possible, and while there may be some longer-lasting effects on the limbic system in recovery, effective treatment can mitigate some of the harsh effects of this.
If you’re ready to begin taking great strides towards your health and wellbeing, speak with a professional from Alta Loma today. Mental illness should be taken seriously and, if not treated early on, more severe conditions can arise. The best way to promote happiness and health is to seek help – and to begin using effective interventions for treating the problematic symptoms a person is experiencing. Don’t wait any longer to seek the help you need. Please call Alta Loma today – and you’ll be surrounded by a healthcare team who truly cares about your recovery. 866-457-3843.
