There’s no single cause of drug addiction. A number of different factors can increase the risk for the development of addiction. By addressing the most common causes of drug addiction, it may be possible to prevent addiction in some individuals or help prevent relapse in others.
Dual Diagnosis is Common
Dual diagnosis is when patients have two distinct disorders, typically a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. It’s incredibly common for those struggling with mental illness to also struggle with drug addiction.
When individuals don’t seek help for mental health issues as well, many will try to self-medicate with drugs. Unfortunately, this often makes the mental illness worse and causes the development of a drug addiction.
Genetic Predisposition to Addiction Plays a Huge Role
According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, genetics can make up as much as 50% of the risk of addiction. This is incredibly important, because it can help explain why multiple people in the same family suffer from drug or alcohol addiction. There may be unique chemical or neurological traits that cause individuals to suffer from genetic alcoholism or drug addiction.
Availability of Drugs Leads to Addiction
Simply put, having access to drugs means that people are more likely to try them. When individuals can easily get their hands on illicit drugs, it makes them seem more normalized and less dangerous. Moreover, they know that their supply won’t run out. One of the most effective ways to reduce drug addiction is to reduce availability of drugs altogether.
Using Drugs at a Young Age Means a Greater Risk for Addiction
Drug use can drastically change the way that the brain functions, particularly with regard to its dopamine receptors and the neurological reward center. These changes are more pronounced in young people. In turn, using drugs while the brain is still developing can heighten the risk of developing a chemical dependence, also known as an addiction.
Addictive Properties of Drugs
Individuals can develop addictions to many different types of drugs. However, certain drugs are more addictive than others. Opiates are among the most addictive substances, and users who try opiates just once can develop an addiction. By some estimates, nearly one-quarter of all those who ever try heroin will go on to have an addiction.
Seeking Help for All Causes of Drug Addiction
Whatever the cause of a drug addiction, recovery is possible. The key is seeking high-quality, evidence-based drug or alcohol rehab. Undergoing any type of unsupervised alcohol withdrawal or drug withdrawal can be very dangerous, which is another reason it’s so important to seek detox and rehab. Pinnacle Peak Recovery in Scottsdale, Arizona offers this type of treatment. Call 866-377-4761 as soon as possible if you or someone you love is ready to tackle a drug addiction.