Sober Synthesis

• The dorsomedial striatum (DMS) receives input from the prefrontal cortex and mediates goal oriented action (decision-making). 
• There are two types of dopaminergic neuronal pathways in the DMS.
• One type is part of the “go” pathway in the brain and the other type is part of the “no-go” pathway. The “no go” or “stop” neuronal pathways become deactivated with heavy alcohol or drug use.
• The loss of our off-switch significantly compromises our ability to think about things and accurately weigh the pros and cons of an action.
• The drinking-withdrawal-drinking cycle further compromises “no go” neuronal activation.
• There is some evidence that there may be a genetic predisposition to have lower “no go” dopamine neurons. 
• Recent research also indicates that lower “no go” neuronal pathways  increases the sensitivity of the “go” neuronal pathway, making us more sensitive to the stimulating effects of alcohol.
• Our off-switch didn’t go away or weaken because we have no self-control. It weakened because alcohol and/or drug abuse changed our brain.

Proposed Questions for Thought/Sharing:

1. How does this information support your recovery plan?

Disclaimer

This summary is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed.