Factors Contributing to the Development of Drug and Alcohol Addiction

Drug and alcohol addiction impacts millions of people nationwide.  It’s not only those who are afflicted with the disease of addiction that experiences the potentially devastating effects of drug abuse.  It’s also the families, friends and loved ones of the drug and alcohol addict who suffer.  Often the most reliable course of action for those who suffer from addiction is to seek professional inpatient care at a quality drug rehabilitation facility.  

Contrary to what many people believe, drug and alcohol addiction is a progressive and sometimes fatal disease.  According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 23.5 million people aged 12 or older required professional treatment for an alcohol or illegal drug abuse problem in 2009.  That equates to just over 9 percent of the population that was aged 12 or older who were considered drug dependent or addiction prone according to the survey.  Of those drug and alcohol abusers, just over 2.5 million received treatment in a drug rehabilitation facility.  

Not everyone who uses or experiments with drugs or alcohol will become addicts.  According to National Institute on Drug Abuse, the following factors greatly influence whether a person will become an addict.  

•  Biology

• Development

• Environment

Biology

Some people are genetically predisposed and more likely to develop the disease of addiction.  This genetic predisposition accounts for approximately 50% of the likelihood that a person will develop an addiction.  Other factors that influence the occurrence of addiction include ethnicity, gender, and the presence of other mental disorders, called comorbidity. 

Development

Addiction is most likely to occur during the critical phase of brain development in adolescents and young adults.  Although those who possess the genetic disposition to the disease of addiction can become dependent on drugs or alcohol at any point during their lives, the brain chemistry and makeup of a young person makes these individuals more vulnerable to the development of addiction.  The National Institute on Drug Abuse indicates that the earlier in life substance use begins, the more likely that it will progress into more serious abuse. 

Environment

There are several environmental factors that can, in conjunction with the factors stated above, influence the likelihood of developing a drug or alcohol addiction.  A history of physical or sexual abuse, socioeconomic status, quality of parenting and stress levels can play a role in determining whether a person will become addicted to drugs or alcohol.

While the factors contributing to the development of addiction are many, often the best remedy to address drug and alcohol abuse is through inpatient drug rehabilitation.  The National Institute of Drug Abuse has published a list of principles of effective drug addiction treatment.  Several of these principles stress the importance of addressing an addiction early, seeking quality treatment through a professional treatment program and analyzing the appropriate length of direct, close supervision with the addict. 

Among the most critical roles of an inpatient drug rehabilitation program are the implementation of behavioral therapies and the provision of structured support and readjustment into a substance and crime-free lifestyle. 

While no single treatment is appropriate for everyone, The National Institute of Drug Abuse has stated that professionally monitored administration of medication, regular assessment of an addict’s needs and medically assisted detoxification are critical to recovery.  However, it is essential that withdraw potential is minimized through motivation enhancement strategies and engagement with a professional treatment specialist.  A quality drug rehabilitation facility follows these recommendations and can greatly assist the drug or alcohol addict in achieving sobriety safely and effectively. 

According to a 2000 survey conducted by The Journal of the American Medical Association, there is a 40%-60% relapse rate among drug abusers who had previously received treatment for drug addiction.  This statistic supports the premise that drug and alcohol addiction cannot be cured.  However, addiction can be effectively managed through a structured treatment program and long term support by peers, family and addiction professionals. 

Drug dependence need not be a life sentence.  Often, the most appropriate course of action is the implementation of a sound treatment program like those that are offered through quality, professional addiction recovery facilities.  The journey to recovery and sobriety may be long and challenging, but the reward of quality-of- life improvement through a drug and alcohol-free existence is worth the struggle.