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Millions of people have experimented with drugs or alcohol without experiencing long-term negative consequences. They may try these substances out of simple curiosity, or because they want to fit in socially. Whatever the reason, nobody tries alcohol or drugs because they want to become addicted.
However, some people get caught in the cycle of substance abuse, while others have no problem moderating when and how much they drink or take drugs. This disparity has fueled the dangerous misconception that addiction is a conscious decision, causing addicts to face stigma and discrimination. Is addiction a choice, or a disease? Let’s take a closer look at the facts.
One of the most harmful characterizations of people with substance use disorders is that they are immoral or weak-willed. This stereotype keeps many addicts from admitting they need help, because they don’t want others to judge them harshly.
The truth is that addiction is a complex brain disease, and quitting usually takes far more than a firm resolution. To understand why someone would continue drinking or abusing drugs even after experiencing multiple negative consequences, it helps to understand how the substance abuse cycle perpetuates itself.
When casual use progresses into a daily habit, your brain’s chemistry and function changes. In the frequent presence of drugs or alcohol, your built-in reward pathways adapt in such a way that it becomes nearly impossible to derive pleasure from anything other than your substance of use. As the addiction gradually takes over your life, you lose the ability to say no.
The patterns and rituals associated with drinking and drug use also create powerful feelings of anticipation and satisfaction. Even people who have pledged to quit and have successfully achieved a period of prolonged sobriety may begin to look back fondly on the sense of gratification that came with their chosen substance, which can trigger cravings and an eventual relapse.
How can some people get hooked on a substance after trying it a couple of times, while others can take it or leave it? Health experts have identified several factors that may put you at a higher risk of developing a substance use disorder.
For example, research indicates genetics play a significant role. If you have a family history of mental health issues, you may be significantly more likely to get addicted to drugs or alcohol.
The substance you use might come into play, as well. Some drugs, such as meth and cocaine, have a much higher potential for abuse than others.
Environmental risk factors may also predict your likelihood of becoming addicted later in life. Growing up with one or more adults who frequently drank or used drugs may cause you to believe that getting drunk or high is a healthy coping mechanism. If these patterns lead to addiction and co-occurring mental health issues, dual-diagnosis treatment can help address both the substance use and the underlying mental health challenges, offering a path to recovery. Dysfunction or abuse can take a toll on family members’ mental health, increasing your chances of reaching for mind-altering substances to relieve stress or anxiety.
The presence of a co-occurring disorder such as depression or PTSD is another significant predictor of substance abuse habits. Left untreated, addiction and mental health issues can magnify each other, fueling a vicious cycle that can become nearly impossible to overcome without professional help.
Though successfully recovering from a dual diagnosis is challenging, it is never out of reach. At Beach House, we believe people struggling with addiction should not have to fight this battle alone.
Our Individual therapy is a core part of our evidence-based continuum of care, helping to strengthen the therapeutic alliance and provide clients with personalized treatment. With our compassionate culture, we offer the treatment and support needed to get back on their feet and reestablish healthy, happy lives free of the burden of substance misuse. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you or a loved one.
Whether you’re researching for yourself or a loved one, Beach House can help. We understand that this is a serious time in your life and that the treatment center you choose matters. We want you to feel comfortable and empowered to make the right decision for yourself, a friend, or a family member. This is why a counselor is waiting and available to answer your questions and help put your mind at ease regarding the next steps. Many of the staff at Beach House have walked in your shoes. If you feel you’re ready or want more information about how to help a loved one, we can help today. You can also learn why we are voted the #1 rehab for addiction treatment in Florida.
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