Why Do People Become Addicted To Drugs? Top Reasons Why

For those who have never had a problem with drugs or alcohol, it can be hard to imagine how something can take hold of a person’s life.

Unfortunately, some people believe that addiction is a sign of weakness or a sign of not having principles of morality. This cannot be further from the truth.

No one sets out to become an addict, so how does it happen? Why are some people more prone to drug or alcohol abuse than others?

What is Addiction?

Before we explain what causes Substance Use Disorder (drug or alcohol addiction), it’s essential to understand what it is. A person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol cannot control their cravings, and pursuing what they crave becomes all-encompassing.

They will sometimes go to extremes and do things that they never thought possible to find relief. Abusing drugs or alcohol causes changes to the brain, and over time the body becomes dependent. In a healthy brain, the reward center works to make you feel good in response to healthy behaviors such as eating or exercising.

These actions trigger the release of dopamine and reinforce these behaviors. In contrast, when you are in a dangerous situation, certain areas of the brain cause you to feel fear. Drugs and alcohol hijack this system, and the reward center responds to use, while other circuits become confused and overactive. This causes fear or anxiety at times when it shouldn’t. The only relief becomes using.

Genetics

One factor in determining if someone will struggle with drug or alcohol abuse is entirely out of their control. Multiple studies have shown that if a person has a family history of addiction, they are 50% more likely to struggle as well. Scientists have been hard at work trying to figure out why some people have problems with drug abuse, and others don’t. They have found that those who become addicted often have genetic abnormalities in the dopamine systems in the brain. This means that without drugs or alcohol, they do not experience the same amount of pleasure from everyday life as those whose systems function at a normal level.

Environment

Many environmental factors influence a person’s likelihood of abusing drugs. These can include:

• Economic status
• Household environment
• Physical or sexual abuse
• Stress
• Parental guidance
• When a person starts using, studies have shown that the earlier a person begins experimenting with drugs or alcohol, the higher the chance that they develop a problem later in life.

Treatment

No matter what causes a person’s addiction, they are not beyond hope. Science has found that addiction can be treated with specific therapies and other strategies. It is vital to seek qualified help that includes strategies for relapse prevention after treatment has concluded.

Concluding Thoughts

It is important to remember that substance use disorder and alcohol addiction or “alcoholism” are complex, chronic diseases. Treatment for these illnesses, just like any other, requires professional help. If you or someone you love is struggling with drug or alcohol abuse, please seek help right away. This is not your fault, and with the right treatment, you can overcome it.

At Daybreak Treatment Solutions, we will be with you every step of the way.  Contact us today and let us show you can we can help. You are not alone!

DayBreak is NOT just another drug rehab center – it is a treatment solution founded on the core principles of change. Relapse no longer needs to be a part of your story, call us when you are ready for a life rediscovered…844-447-3239