Researchers discover the cause of 'tunnel vision' in drug addiction

Fairwinds Treatment Center is one of the few dually licensed psychiatric and substance abuse centers in the United States. Its founder, Dr. M.K. (Khal) El-Yousef, pioneered the dual diagnosis treatment plan that has been so effective in helping patients with recovery from drug addiction.

Dr. El-Yousef and the professionals at Fairwinds know that addiction is not only a physiological disease but also a psychological one. Patients require therapeutic counseling in response to their underlying mental and emotional triggers as well as clinical treatment in order to achieve long-term results. At Fairwinds, the focus is on healing the mind, body and spirit so the patients can return to their families, reconnect with their communities and go on to lead happier and healthier lives.

At the University of Michigan, researchers have gained new insight into what happens in the brains of those suffering from addiction. It seems that addictive, harmful substances activate the amygdala, the part of the brain that processes emotions. This registers with the individual as a pleasurable sensation. However, the amygdalas of people with addiction problems produce a much stronger, more intense reaction than most people experience, causing the 'tunnel vision' associated with substance abuse. 

One researcher told Health and Medicine, speaking of addictive substances, "One reason they can be so problematic for certain individuals is their ability to become almost the sole focus of their daily lives, at the cost of one's health, job, family, and general well-being."

If you or a loved one is suffering from drug addiction, contact the professionals at Fairwinds today and find out what treatment options might be the most effective for you. Fairwinds is one of the most highly respected addiction treatment centers in the nation, so you can be sure you'll receive only the best care.