A prolonged involvement in substance or behavioral addiction can alter the molecular and structural nature in the brain. But, there isn't any evidence to suggest that hoarding causes any changes in the structure that the brain. It is interesting to note that it has been observed that specific brain disorders are associated with higher rate of hoarding behavior that is abnormal (SK et al. 2009). MRI studies have shown damages to the frontal part of the brain could result in abnormal hoarding behavior that was not evident prior to the damage was incurred (SK and co. 2009).
Addictive substances such drug rehab west Virginia as amphetamines cocaine, as well as morphine raise the levels of dopamine within the synapses, triggering the reinforcement and reward response (Hyman and Malenks 2001). Similar to addiction, addictive behavior like gambling can have an impact similar to a drug in the brain. Research has shown that brain blood flow in a gambler who anticipates winning similar to that of the brain of cocaine or morphine user (Goodman 2008. Holden in 2005). Another difference between compulsive and addictive behaviorslike hoarding is the presence of dependence, tolerance, or withdrawal-related symptoms. These processes don't appear to be present in the brains of those who are compulsively hoarders.
Why is The Distinction Important?
A clear distinction between compulsive and addiction behaviors is essential for the development of effective treatment. In the present Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) compulsive hoarding is regarded as a behavior diagnostic criterion to diagnose Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Researchers are currently suggesting that hoarding is not a compulsion associated with OCD and isactually being considered to be an independent diagnosis in five editions of DSM (Mataix-Cols and others. 2010,).
Treatment for hoarding disorders that are compulsive usually requires a helpful clutter coach as well as a counselor to assist the person in making decisions and behaviour modification(Sanxena Maidment, 2004). However chemical addiction is usually addressed through a period of detoxification, which could be accompanied by an inpatient stay to monitor withdrawal symptoms. Treatment for addictions to behavior such as gambling could involve alcohol rehab near me the need for hospitalization also. Treatment for hoarding disorders that are compulsive doesn't require an in-depth detoxification process nor does require hospitalization. Eliminating a hoarder of their home and putting them in an inpatient treatment center is unlikely to work as a successful treatment. But treatment for compulsive behavior and addiction have some similarities. Usage of behavioral therapy such as CBT is commonplace in the treatment of addiction as well as hoarding. CBT is focused on replacing negative thoughts, irrational thinking and negative thoughts with more positive, healthy ones, and assists in enhancing healthy coping abilities. Anxiolytics and antidepressants can be effective in treating co-morbid conditions like anxiety and depression frequently associated with chronic hoarding and addiction (Saxena and Maidment, 2004).
