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Greetings Kimberly,
Learn how changes in brain chemistry make quitting difficult but healing possible.
Who or what comes to mind when you hear the word addiction or substance abuse?
No one is immune—addiction crosses every age, gender, financial class, and occupation.
For me, it reminds me of family members who have struggled—or still struggle—to break free from patterns that harm their bodies. Despite knowing the health consequences and the “how to,” some find it impossible to quit.
This holiday season will feel different for our family. My uncle is no longer here to celebrate. He lost his battle with COPD earlier this year—likely the result of decades of smoking. The inflammation in his lungs slowly destroyed his ability to breathe. In the end, pain, heavy sedation, and a breathing machine were his only options. It wasn’t a life he would have wanted, and saying goodbye was one of the hardest things we’ve ever done.
Addiction & the Brain
It’s easy to sit on the sidelines and say, “Just quit.” But addiction—more accurately called substance use disorder—isn’t about willpower. It’s a disease.
Addiction hijacks the brain. Normally, our dopamine pathways reward healthy pleasures—good food, meaningful connection, and music. But substances like nicotine, alcohol, cocaine, and opioids trigger a direct, powerful surge of dopamine that far exceeds natural rewards.
With repeated use, the brain’s wiring changes. The reward stays potent, making it feel impossible to stop, even when the negative effects are obvious. My uncle Keith who battled smoking used to say, “One is too many and a thousand are never enough.”
The good news? Our bodies can heal.
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Smoking cessation immediately cuts heart attack risk in half compared to continuing smokers.
- After 2–5 years, stroke risk matches that of a non-smoker.
- After 10 years, lung cancer risk drops by 50%.
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Alcohol cessation reduces the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, cancer, and unintentional injuries.
Today, there are more former smokers than current smokers—a sign of hope.
(Sources: CDC, WHO)
Help & Healing Are Available
If you or someone you know is struggling, remember: it often takes a combination of treatments to break free. There are medications, counseling, support groups, and community-based programs. Speak with a doctor or pastor about available support.
Be aware: some methods, like hypnosis and acupuncture, which haven’t been shown to be effective for smoking cessation.
Helpful Resources:
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SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (confidential, free, 24/7/365, English and Spanish)
- Celebrate Recovery
- Alcoholics Anonymous
- Narcotics Anonymous
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1-800-QUIT-NOW (smoking cessation)
- Adult Teen Challenge
Upcoming
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Next Week: Can some addictions be socially acceptable or even promoted?
Home for the Holidays Connection
Hears to a Hopeful and Healthy Holiday Season,
Kim
Hope and Healing Lifestyle Coach
“Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” — J.K. Rowling
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