Addiction usually does not result from only one single issue, but instead a combination of the primary risk factors including biological factors, and environmental risks and influences.
BIOLOGICAL FACTORS:
Drug addiction is found to be 50 percent reliant upon genes that are passed down through generations of family members. A study took note that children of addiction victims are eight times more likely to suffer from addiction in their own lifetimes.
Mental illnesses or mental health disorders can also lead to a higher chance of addiction. If a mental health disorder such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is present, the individual is more likely than not to abuse drugs. This may stem from an attempt to self medicate the symptoms caused by mental illness, like anxiety, painful feelings, and loneliness.
An additional biological factor that is controversial among addiction researchers is gender. Some studies conducted at addiction treatment centers have found that addiction can indeed be based upon gender and that the number of men who become addicted is larger than the number of women who succumb to substance abuse.
ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES AND RISKS:
Environmental influences and risks, such as peer groups that encourage substance use, family values, and beliefs, or stress, can also lead to a greater likelihood of addiction.
- Homelife – a highly influential factor; children who come from neglectful or abusive households are more likely to suffer from addiction. Drugs and alcohol are often used as an emotional replacement for the unhappiness experienced at home.
- Peer pressure – most likely occurs during teenage years due to being more easily persuaded; pressure felt by some people for social acceptance is also a common factor.
- Stress – environmental factors with the potential to influence the chances of addiction; poor coping skills equal an inability to handle daily stress. Drug and alcohol abuse can be used as an escape route from life stressors.
Coming to terms with having a problem is the first stepping stone toward recovering from addiction; it is a disease that lasts a lifetime, therefore finding proper treatment is crucial. Becoming familiar with the causes and risk factors of addiction may help a person see how addiction may truly be affecting them, and take the initiative to seek help.
At Asana Recovery, we strive to understand how difficult recovering from these addictions can be, through our day to day work assisting those who suffer most from this disease. Some believe they can make it on their own, but we believe that rehabilitation programs are greatly needed when breaking free from dependency. The road ahead won’t always be smooth or easy, but nonetheless can be conquered if done so with the right team as your foundation.
All of the supervised detox programs and residential treatment in California at Asana Recovery are offered in a calm, relaxed atmosphere. We eagerly look forward to ensuring your long term recovery and guiding you towards a healthier and happier future. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our alcohol and drug addiction treatment in California today!
