Addiction is a complex condition that is influenced by a variety of factors. Peer pressure, physical and sexual abuse, early exposure to drugs, stress, and parental guidance can all play a role in a person's likelihood of using drugs and becoming addicted. Genetics and environmental factors interact to increase the risk of addiction, with reports suggesting that between 40 and 60% of the predisposition to addiction is due to genetics. Children of people with an addiction are 25% more likely to also develop an addiction compared to children of non-addicted parents.
The environment in which we grow up and continue to thrive has an enormous impact on mental and physical well-being and is therefore a major cause of addiction. The brain and body also play a role in the disease of addiction. Every time you eat, have sex, or participate in any activity that contributes to survival, your brain is flooded with dopamine. Chronic stress, a history of trauma, mental illness, and a family history of addiction are all common roots of addiction.
Understanding how these substances can lead to chronic substance abuse and addiction will help you reduce your risk of becoming an addict. Here we'll discuss practical ways in which you can reduce your risk of developing a drug or alcohol addiction.
