Never Enough: The Neuroscience and Experience of Addiction

Judith Grisel lived a life as a drug addict, before becoming clean and getting a PhD in behavioral neuroscience. Never Enough goes through many different drugs, describing what they do to the body and how they are addictive. She also includes experiences of her own as well as those she knows. Light drugs like caffeine are covered, as are "legal" drugs like alcohol and tobacco. The bulk is spent with discussion on the "street drugs", though the addictive prescription drugs are also given substantial coverage.

The "reversion to the mean" is a part of the issue with drugs. The "highs" are often accompanied by a similar low. Drugs can often simulate natural occurrences. However, the drug can be made very predictable, thus encourage their abuse. Even when there is not a physical addiction, there is often a strong association with the drug and a desire to continue. Often a removal from the environment is needed to break the habit.

After covering the various drugs, the author looks at the general drug epidemic. There is often a social aspect to drug use. However, there is with it a very anti-social flavor, with addicts looking for the high over any other moral beliefs. The author doesn't blame anyone for the drug epidemic, but does believe everyone has some responsibility.