The Brains Reward System Analogy:

 The Brains Reward System Analogy:

Think of the brain's reward system like a garden. When you nurture it with healthy activities—like exercise, hobbies, sex, and social interactions—it flourishes, producing vibrant flowers and fruits (the release of dopamine and feelings of pleasure). However, if you start introducing weeds (like drug use), they can quickly take over, choking out the healthy plants and throwing the entire ecosystem off balance. Just as a gardener must tend to the garden to restore its beauty, individuals struggling with addiction must address their brain's reward system to cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Addiction: You Choose

 Addiction: You Choose

As human beings, we possess an extraordinary ability to exercise free will. Every day, the choices we make directly impact the course of our lives. From the moment we open our eyes in the morning to the time we close them at night, we are faced with a multitude of decisions that we must make. Even the decision to refrain from making a choice is still a choice in itself. This fact can be empowering, as it means that we have the power to create the life we want through our choices. However, it also means that we must take responsibility for the consequences of those choices. 

Addiction is not a chronic disease but a rational choice process. While addiction is a complex issue that may involve a variety of factors, at its core, it is a choice that a person has made. Recognizing this fact is a crucial step in overcoming addiction and taking control of one's life. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) recognize addiction as a chronic illness that affects the brain and can result in relapses, much like other chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease. 

Drug addiction: Is it a disease or a choice? Marc Branch's review of Gene Heyman's book 'Addiction: A Disorder of Choice' (2011) discusses Heyman's perspective. Heyman suggests that addiction can arise from typical and fundamental decision-making processes, and individuals do not necessarily choose to become addicts. Rather, a typical decision-making process can lead to addiction. Heyman believes that choice-by-choice contingencies play a crucial role in determining an individual's choices, rather than the outcome of sequences of choices. Although some people argue that genetic factors contribute to addiction, Heyman acknowledges genetic contributions but asserts that they are not a reliable basis for concluding that drug abuse is a disease process. According to Branch (2011), Heyman's theory is as follows:

 “That addiction is tied to changes in brain structure and function is what makes it, fundamentally, a disease.” (Leshner, 1997, p. 45) The logic of this statement is obviously fallacious, as Heyman is quick to point out. Any persistent change in behavior is going to be associated with changes in the central nervous system because the nervous system participates in behavior. One might as well conclude, say, that reading is a disease because the brains of readers necessarily differ from those of nonreaders. (pp263–267)

Scientists have discovered techniques that can predict self-defeating and selfish behavior patterns. These laws of choice predict how different species, including humans, choose between different commodities and activities. The relevance of these laws to addiction and other self-defeating behaviors is that they predict stable yet suboptimal patterns of behavior. A common feature of addictive drugs is that they provide immediate benefits but delayed costs. Scores of studies support the analysis that persistent drug use reflects the workings of a local optimum, whereas controlled drug use or abstinence reflects the workings of a global optimum.

In the past, addiction studies were limited to individuals who had been incarcerated, such as detoxification, in American prisons, hospitals, or similar institutions. These studies typically included individuals with extensive criminal records, limited work experience, low-cost marriage rates, and lower-than-average education. As a result, the understanding of addiction as a chronic illness was based on a sample of drug users whose demographic characteristics are now known to be comparable to the factors that make quitting difficult.

However, the 1960s saw the emergence of drug addiction among college campuses and affluent neighborhoods, and addiction began affecting individuals from all walks of life, including those who were employed, married, and highly educated. Consequently, the natural history of addiction shifted, with family, work, and the difficulties of an unlawful lifestyle often causing the desire to become high. Contrary to popular belief, every major epidemiological study conducted over the past 30 years reflects this reality. Studies have demonstrated that addiction is no longer confined to a specific demographic, and individuals from all backgrounds can be affected. Furthermore, these studies have demonstrated that quitting drugs is not just a matter of willpower, but rather it is a complex process that requires extensive medical assistance, counseling, and support from family and friends. By recognizing the changing nature of addiction and adopting a more holistic approach to treatment, we can assist those struggling with addiction to overcome their challenges and lead wholesome, gratifying lives.

Navigating the Milestones: Reflecting on My Daughter's Fourth Birthday

As parents, we all aspire to create the perfect birthday party for our children, filled with joy, love, and unforgettable memories. However, sometimes things don't go as planned. During my daughter's fourth birthday party, things took an unexpected turn, and it seemed like we were in a scene straight out of a redneck trailer park. Despite the party veering off course, it taught me valuable lessons about flexibility and resilience. Even amidst the chaos, I learned to embrace imperfection and find beauty in the unexpected. Reflecting on the redneck trailer park-like scenario that unfolded, the party reminded me that life doesn't always go as planned. Although the initial disappointment and frustration were overwhelming, I found that some of the adults' behavior was even worse than the kids' showin' out, and I was ready to leave. By this point, the party was practically over, and everyone was leaving due to the arguing. After leaving for a couple of hours, I was able to calm down. Eventually, I will learn to roll with the punches and to be more prepared for the unexpected.

Ultimately, the party was a valuable lesson in resilience and adaptability.

PTK

I am at the end of my second semester of college but the first set of classes working towards my degree. 20 years out of highschool, I needed a couple of prep courses first. The first semester was kind of easy and I was excited to be on the right path. Little did I know what that path would be. The second semester hit a little harder, most of my days are spent studying or working on assignments. I love it! I love learning new things, even if it means correcting what I thought I knew. I am among the oldest in my classes but that doesn't stop me from feeling like a college kid. I put my all into my classes. My boyfriend would say I put too much into it but I don't think so. 

This semester has been a real eye opening experience for me. My Freshman comp 1 required 3 major essays. I had to retake my prep algebra course because I failed the first attempt online. American Government is something...well I will keep my views on the government to myself so its just been another course I have to tread lightly on. And my business course is my favorite. That is what I am going to school for. 

This coming up week is final exams. I should be studying. But last Friday I received an email that I never expected. It was an invisition to join the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Me, an honor student? I can not believe it. And a couple of days before that I received an email to tryout for Cheerleading. Do these people have me confused with someone else? I am 44 years old. 

So I responded to the PTK and joined the Honor Society. 

Scattered thoughts

It's been a few months again. I'll learn to juggle college and teach Brookie pre-k at home one day. Let's just say life. This morning, I saw a TikTok video that touched me deeply because it was about resentment. And my last post was about resentment. It was from Kelly Kopp (if you need to find out who he is, look him up). But let me back up right here for a minute. 

Y'all know I was raised in a very Christian home with a picture-perfect family. My dad was my momma's first boyfriend. They dated for 3 years, got married, and waited four more years to have my older brother. This means they got to know each other before adding more stress to the relationship. Then, five and a half years after my brother was born, I came along. My parents had us very much involved in church till we got grown. Then, he and I both quit going. My brother started drinking at an early age, and he still drinks. My ex-husband introduced me to drugs, and well, it's been a battle. I know my parents wanted a different life for us both, and I know they still pray for us daily. But lately, God has been working on my heart. Or I may have started listening. Don't get me wrong, I have always believed in God, and I know Jesus Christ died for our sins. I attend church occasionally and help my parents with their ministry when needed. I can tell you everything you are supposed to do and reference the bible verses to back it up. But I feel like I have been living a double life, kind of. And it is wearing on me. Lately, I have been listening to YouTube videos about the bible and trying to understand it as an adult, not the children's bible version. I haven't started going back to church, but I know I need to. I have a hard time with religion because I feel like they all get lost in the rules and forget the purpose. 

Back to this TicTok video, Kelly said something that made so much sense to me (it made me feel stupid for not knowing). He said pray for the person you have resentment towards. Not a bless their heart Southern prayer but pray like you would for a family member. Even though you might not feel like you meant it at first. Leave the rest up to the Holy Spirit. Over time, your heart will change, and before you know it, you will mean every word in that prayer, and the resentment will be gone. 

This post is all over the place and probably makes no sense to anyone except me. I will explain a little later. I still need to process some of the thoughts. To be continued...

Victim mentality

 

Victim mentality is a psychological state in which an individual feels that they are constantly at the mercy of external factors and that they have no control over their life circumstances. People with this mindset often see themselves as helpless victims of their environment and tend to attribute their problems to external factors such as other people, society, or the universe at large. This can lead to hopelessness, powerlessness, and frustration and prevent individuals from taking meaningful action to improve their situation.

Analyses of victim mentality suggest that it can arise from a variety of factors, including past trauma, negative experiences, and a lack of self-esteem. People who have experienced significant adversity or discrimination may be more likely to develop this mindset, as they may feel that the world is inherently unjust or unfair. Additionally, societal messages that emphasize victimhood or powerlessness can reinforce this way of thinking, particularly for marginalized or disadvantaged groups.

Despite its negative effects, victim mentality can be difficult to overcome, as it may be deeply ingrained in an individual's self-concept. However, there are strategies that can help individuals shift their mindset and take control of their lives. These include building self-esteem and self-efficacy, seeking out supportive relationships and resources, and developing a growth-oriented mindset that emphasizes personal responsibility and resilience.

In conclusion, victim mentality is a complex psychological state that can have significant impacts on individuals' lives. While it can be challenging to overcome, it is important to recognize its effects and work towards empowering individuals to take control of their own lives and overcome their challenges.

Resentment

I firmly believe that resentment is an emotion that cannot be overcome, no matter how hard one tries. Once you start to resent a person, place, or thing, I have always found it almost impossible to move forward. I can be civil and even friendly towards people I hate or envy. Anger, disappointment, regret, shame, and even disgust are complex negative emotions to get past, but resentment is a class by itself. Despite trying various methods, such as forgiveness, writing down my feelings, and meditation, I have not had any luck. However, 'they' say there are steps to take to work towards greater self-compassion and understanding.

I thought I had moved on from this, but it is not simple. I have forgiven all the parties involved, but the experience has changed my perspective on everything. This situation took away my personal and professional life. The worst part is my self-perception changed. As my life started falling apart, I began questioning everything I knew. I wasn't just hurt or heartbroken; I was devastated.

I knew I had to find a way to break the cycle and move forward. I had to find a way to rebuild my life, but I didn't know where to start. As each day went by, I felt increasingly lost and overwhelmed. I decided to focus on what I could do each day. I never really found my footing. I was only surviving. And to my surprise, life started to rebuild itself. It did not take off, and most of the trip was downhill before I began to climb. 

It's been 10 years, and I am content with life. I have a beautiful 3-year-old little girl. A boyfriend who is everything I could ever ask for, yet the total opposite of me. I just finished my first semester of my AA degree. I am working towards a better future and setting an example for my daughter. Life seems good.

I wake up. The room is black. I am lost and confused; I struggle to see what is around me. I finally feel my phone and light it up. It's 4:15 am. I am home in my bed with my daughter on one side and my boyfriend on the other. Oh, thank God, it was just the dream again. The dream that takes me face to face with the ones that destroyed me. With me being the butt of the joke all over again. The dream always feels so real, as if I am dying this time. I have learned not to go back to sleep because the dreams only get worse from here. I sneak out of bed, trying not to disturb the two snoring around me. I stop at the bedroom door, look back at the bed, and thank God for the two best things that ever happened to me. 

Sitting down in front of my computer, my mind going 100 mph all over the place. Reliving the words thrown around that caused all the negative feelings to flood my entire body. Feeling worthless and hopeless. Then, the fear of it happening again. STOP, I say out loud as if to quiet the thoughts in my head. Then I see it again.

You have to be kidding me? There's no way I am still dealing with this. I have moved on. Is it them that I resent? No. Maybe the whole situation, yeah. I feel as though it is much deeper than that. I believe it has to be me. And if I cannot figure this out and gain control of the cause, it will destroy me again. But how do you let go of something you don't even know you are holding on to?