Drug addiction can occur for many reasons. While the actual cause of addiction to drugs relates to the changes that these substances make in the brain, often leading to dependency, addiction may be more likely to happen to some people in various situations. At Addiction Recovery Centers, we work with people facing challenges from all types of causes. If you are struggling with addiction, reach out to us now for immediate help.
Common Causes of Addiction
The National Institute on Drug Abuse states there are numerous reasons why people suffer from substance use disorder. Sometimes it is not known why this occurs or why some people suffer from it, and others in similar situations do not. It is a complex disease that often requires a careful understanding of numerous factors that could be contributing to its progression.
Some of the most common causes of addiction include:
- A person’s biology: Some people may be born with a genetic makeup that makes them more prone. About 50% of a person’s risk for developing addiction stems from their genes. Additionally, the risk of mental health disorders and gender may also play a role in why some people develop addiction.
- Environment: The environment a person lives in also influences this risk. This includes their family and friends, economic status, and overall quality of life. Things like physical and sexual abuse, domestic violence witnesses, stress factors, and even parental guidance all contribute to whether or not a child will grow up to use drugs. Some people gain early access to drugs from their presence in the home. Others come into contact with this in their community.
- Development: A person’s development of this condition may also relate to their development. For example, those taking drugs at a young age may be more likely to suffer addiction that progresses. Since a teen’s brain is not fully developed, this may lead to being more prone to engaging in risky behavior.
Who Is at Risk for Addiction?
There are many people who could be at risk for addiction. According to the National Library of Medicine, that may include:
- The way the body reacts to drugs, some people may experience more significant reactions and a higher likelihood of developing dependence.
- The existence of mental health problems may also play a role in those who struggle with addiction. Those who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other conditions may be at higher risk for developing addiction.
- Those who live in a home that’s unsafe or where there is the presence of violence, abuse, or neglect may also be at a higher risk, and even more so if there is drug use within the home.
- Those who struggle with work, school, and relationships may also be at a higher risk because they may turn to substances as a way to get their mind off treatment.
- Those who associate themselves with peers are also more likely to use drugs than those that do not.
- Those who start to use drugs at a younger age are also at a higher risk.
Can Drug Addiction Be Treated?
Drug addiction is a progressive and chronic condition. While it is possible to treat and control it, there is no cure for it. Yet, with the help of treatment programs, including the start of detox and then residential treatment, many people may find that there are steps they can take to improve their health and well-being.
The first such step is to recognize that, when dependence forms, a person may not be able to stop using on their own. Even if they desire to do so, it may be impossible to simply stop using. That is when a detox program can be the first step.
From there, residential treatment in a modern, innovative treatment center can provide help for a person no matter what caused their addiction. That may mean providing an individual with a wide range of therapies to help them achieve the best possible outcome.
Reach out to Addiction Recovery Centers today to learn more about the treatment options available to you. An admissions counselor can offer insight and guidance to support your path towards no longer using substances and gaining control over your future.