Substance Abuse Causes & Risk Factors

Substance abuse is the misuse of alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications or any other substance to achieve a mind- or body-altered condition. The abuser becomes physically, emotionally or psychologically addicted to the effects, quickly becoming dependent. Substance abuse reaches all classes, races, sexes and ages.

Dependency and Addiction

• A person can become dependent on a specific substance without becoming addicted. True addiction is a process in which a person becomes so dependent on a substance he truly believes he cannot live without it. Physical addiction occurs when prolonged use has affected physiological processes so intensely, discontinuing use would lead to serious physical withdrawal. Alcoholics, prescription drug abusers and many other substance abusers experience the serious and painful physical symptoms of withdrawal in the absence of the abused substance for any length of time.

Environmental Risk Factors

• Several environmental risk factors have been identified that affect both teenagers and adults. A community environment where drugs and alcohol are easily accessible, as well as the existence of peer pressure by classmates or colleagues, are difficult to resist. A family history of abuse or parents who model such behavior have been shown to be strong determining factors. Concern about one's social status and economic deprivation can lead to substance abuse also.

Personality and Genetics

• Individual genetics as evidenced by a family history of substance abuse are believed to play a part in the decision to engage in abuse, as is an individual's temperament. It may also be possible to link the inability to assess consequences to substance abuse. Particularly in teenagers, a lack of normal social skills may also lead to an increased incidence of substance abuse.