For some people, drug or alcohol use may start from experimentation. For others, it may stem from a physical or mental health issue. Addiction is a complex disease and is often made up of many factors.

The mental health experts at Cedar Oaks Wellness Center are here to break down some of the most common factors that contribute to the development of alcohol and drug addiction.

Having Addictive Personality Traits

Just like physical health issues, certain mental health factors will increase the possibility of developing an addiction. One of the major factors associated with drug addiction is personality characteristics. If a person has the following traits, they are at a higher risk than the average person to try addictive drugs:

• Adventurous
• Spontaneous
• High spirited
• Willing to try anything once

Taking a highly addictive drug, even just one time can give them the ‘high’ that they are looking for. However, this can result in a vicious cycle of drug abuse, addiction, and chemical dependency.

Family History

If there are members in the family who misuse drugs or are addicted, others are more likely to mimic this behavior and develop issues themselves. This is especially true if there are parents or a sibling who are addicted to drugs or alcohol.

Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is another factor that can affect the development of an addiction. If many people in a friend group are using drugs, there is a high possibility that the person will follow suit. If they see their peers doing so, they will want to try it too and could very well get hooked on the drugs they are taking.

Low Self-Esteem

Having a negative self-image can lead an individual to seek solace in abusing drugs and alcohol. Oftentimes, people turn to the effects of alcohol and drugs like cocaine to feel a false sense of confidence in social settings.

Mental Illness

Did you know, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 9.5 million American adults experienced both a substance use disorder and a mental illness?

Those with mental illnesses may find themselves more prone to self-medication as a means of coping with their emotional discomfort. Some may resort to drugs and alcohol as a source of relief or to escape their troubles. Psychological problems are difficult to work around and often require professional help to deal with the underlying causes of drug use.

If you or a loved one are suffering from alcohol or drug addiction and are ready to start your journey toward recovery and wellness, we’re here to help. At Cedar Oaks Wellness Center, we believe that our clients should have a say in how they recover from alcohol and drug addiction to meet their specific needs and goals.To learn more about our treatment programs, fill out an online contact form or call us at (513) 780-5201 today.