Drug addiction is a problem that affects people from all walks of life, regardless of their origin, social status, race, or gender. However, some individuals are more likely to develop an addiction than others due to certain risk factors. Genetics, family history, mental health, and the environment can all contribute to a person's susceptibility to addiction. When exploring the risk factors for addiction, it is important to look deeper into the human psyche and understand what motivates us and places some people at greater risk of developing addictions than others.
While addiction affects men and women and even children of all ages and economic groups, certain factors have been shown to increase the likelihood of drug use and addiction. The experience of addiction or substance use is different for each individual, and there is often a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors that can contribute to a person struggling with addiction or substance use. While there are a wide range of risk factors that can cause addiction, the first use of an addictive substance or participation in behavior that could become addictive often begins after the first experience.