How is motivation affected by drug abuse?

Answer 1

It is not a completely simple answer.

Drug abuse effects the chemical balances in the body. When we do drugs, the drug takes the place of a signal naturally created by the body.

Our bodies produce the chemical dopamine naturally at a pretty small level.

When we us drugs, the DRUG tells the body to pump up dopamine production.

This is the "feel good" or "reward" chemical in the brain.

So when "use" turns into "abuse" the body completely IGNORES the natural signals for production of dopamine and many other chemicals.

Motivation is connected to dopamine, as the body rewards you getting off you butt and doing something with pride in a job well done.

That "job well done" chemical reward is not being produced without drugs. AND the amount of the reward naturally is much SMALLER than the drug induced reward.

Therefore your body CAN NOT "reward" motivation.

Withdraw from drugs is the period while your body "RESETS" it's systems to start making the chemicals according to it's own signals.

As mentioned, many more chemicals than dopamine are taken over by different drugs. Opiates retards the bodys ability to produce melatonin and induce sleep.

This is why when there is no opiates, you cant sleep. You have to wait until the body starts making the proper levels of melatonin and serotonin on its own. This withdraw period is the body and brain producing the wrong levels, if any at all, of the chemicals that keep us human.

Answer 2

Drug abuse can affect motivation by altering the brain's reward system, leading to a decreased ability to experience pleasure from everyday activities. This can result in a lack of motivation to pursue goals or engage in activities that were once enjoyable. Additionally, the negative consequences of drug abuse, such as physical health problems or legal issues, can further diminish motivation.