What Causes Addiction? 3 Factors You Need to Understand

There are as many substances to become addicted to as there are reasons. Whether you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction as a result of physical, mental, circumstantial or emotional factors, we can help.

What causes addiction?
In most cases, addiction begins as a psychological dependence and develops into a physical addiction. However, the source of addiction is yet unknown. It remains a complicated interplay between genetics, environment and personality. There are many people that are able to satisfy their curiosities about drugs and alcohol with experimentation and without developing a dependency. This is commonly known as a habit because it may be controlled or done by choice. Breaking bad habits takes time, but they are not generally associated with the psychological or neurological affects of addiction. Those with addiction quickly develop a physical dependence on the drug in order to function properly.

What is addiction?
According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), addiction is a “primary chronic disease of the brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry.” Addiction is characterized by the inability to stop using harmful substances despite its negative effects on your personal and professional life. Prolonged use of these substances can cause greater dependence on them and increase your risk of disability or premature death.

3 factors about addiction you need to know
Millions of Americans are dependent on drugs and alcohol. It’s important to understand that anyone can become addicted to drugs or alcohol. Here are a few important factors to keep in mind so we can all help reduce the stigma surrounding addiction:

• Addiction is not an indicator of poor character
  Addiction is a very real medical condition that needs to be treated. It is not indicative of a person with loose morals or principles.
• Addiction can affect any demographic
  Although certain addictions may be slightly more prevalent in certain groups, addiction can affect anyone, no matter their race, ethnicity, gender or socioeconomic status.
• Addiction is treatable
  Rosecrance is here to help you though the most difficult part of your journey when you make the decision to stop being bound by your addition. We believe in the power of fellowship, hope and the desire of every human spirit to heal and are dedicated to helping you achieve your full potential. Join us when you need a community to help restore your sense of self worth, because you are worth it.

Rosecrance offers high-quality, efficient and effective residential and outpatient mental health services for children, adults and families. If you’re in need of skilled, compassionate addiction treatment in Illinois, please contact us at 866.928.5278. We are here to provide the hope, help and recovery you need to achieve your full potential and help restore your family.