Are you or someone you know struggling with addiction? Do you wonder why some individuals become addicted to drugs or alcohol while others do not? The truth about addiction is that it affects people of all backgrounds and ages. While there is no single cause of addiction, there are certain risk factors that can increase a person’s vulnerability to developing an addiction or relapse. Despite the risks, there is no guarantee that someone will develop an addiction. Understanding these risk factors can help with prevention and recovery.
Calvary Healing Center offers substance treatment in Phoenix, Arizona that can support lasting recovery. Call 888.492.5113 today to get started on your journey to recovery.
The Most Common Risk Factors for Addiction
Not every risk factor applies to everyone, but there are certain factors that can increase the likelihood of developing an addiction. Here’s a breakdown of some common risk factors for addiction:
Genetics
For some individuals, genetics plays a significant role in why addiction occurs. Addiction tends to run in families, and genetic factors could be responsible for up to half of all cases. However, having a family member with addiction does not guarantee that someone will become addicted.
Childhood Trauma
Trauma, including physical or sexual abuse, poverty, neglect, or living in a household with addiction, can have lasting effects on mental and physical health. Childhood trauma has been found to be a leading factor in the development of addiction. Trauma and addiction are closely linked, and people who have experienced childhood trauma are at higher risk for addiction because they may turn to substances to escape painful memories.
Mental Health Conditions
Certain mental health conditions can increase the risk of substance abuse. These can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- PTSD
Having a mental health condition does not mean that someone cannot find long-term recovery from addiction. Many individuals have found successful recovery with the help of medications and other therapies.
Environmental Factors
The environment is an important factor when it comes to developing an addiction. People who grow up in a household where drug and alcohol use are common may be more likely to develop an addiction as well. Additionally, those who have ready access to substances may find it harder to avoid them or resist the temptation when they are accessible.
Do These Risk Factors Make Addiction Inevitable?
No. It is important to remember that although these risk factors can increase someone’s vulnerability to developing an addiction, they do not guarantee it. Many individuals with risk factors never develop an addiction, and those who do can still find successful recovery with the help of supportive treatment.
One way to avoid addiction or relapse is to seek out treatment for mental health conditions and trauma. Talking with a therapist or counselor and engaging in talk therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help to identify and process difficult emotions that could lead to substance use. Levels of care like inpatient and outpatient treatment can help someone start on their path to lasting recovery from addiction.
And if you do find yourself struggling with addiction, getting professional help is the best way to start on your journey to recovery.
Reach Out to Calvary Healing Center Today
At Calvary Healing Center, we understand that addiction affects people of all ages and backgrounds. We provide substance treatment in Phoenix, Arizona, for those struggling with addiction. Whether you are looking for treatment for yourself or a loved one, our caring professionals are here to support each individual’s journey to recovery.
Call Calvary Healing Center today at 888.492.5113 or reach out to us online to get started.