I first started using synthetic marijuana in 2012. I was introduced by a friend. (Or at least I thought he was.) It was a hot day in July and I was bored with nothing to do one weekend. I called a buddy to chill and blaze and he told me about his new batch of weed and was giving out free joints. So, I took him up on his offer of a “free high.”
I did not complain at the time but my life has taken a major turn since smoking what I learned was K2. I can honestly say it has a serious side effect on mood swings.
You see, the way addiction works, is the brain uses chemicals called neurotransmitters to send messages from cell to cell, with specialized receptors in place to interpret those messages. Scientists believe the brain contains about 100 different types of neurotransmitters, each with a highly specialized function.
Trouble begins when drugs and alcohol interrupt this carefully balanced system, especially the release of dopamine, a brain chemical that plays an important role in pleasure and reward, as well as sleep, learning, memory, attention, and mood.
Dopamine is released every time you engage in a pleasurable activity, including eating, having sex, running, or even watching your favorite sports team. However, pleasure associated with drugs and alcohol can trigger the release of up to two times more dopamine than natural rewards. Damage begins when the brain is flooded with abnormally high amounts of dopamine.
The brain works hard to adjust and restore balance, but the release of dopamine continues every time the substance is used. Soon, the brain becomes tolerant of the substance and pleasurable feelings are no longer possible. Larger amounts of dopamine become needed to simply avoid painful withdrawal.
I’ve been to two treatment programs to address my issue and I have problems going to sleep. Sometimes I feel spaced out using synthetic drugs. It kills my drive or motivation. Toward the end of last year, I tried doing out-patient treatment in groups at Family Medical in Southeast by the Big Chair. I’m still trying.
Addiction is pleasure without conscience.
