Although the causes of addiction are not as mysterious as they once were, there are still many things researchers do not completely understand. As meticulous as the scientific community can be, studies are imperfect, and many theories require years of research and data analysis to verify. As such, there is still controversy among scientists on some of the details.
But a few things are undeniable, including the fact that there is no single factor that guarantees protection against addiction. Regardless of background, social status, personality, or genetics, every human brain can be affected through certain substances or behaviors.
However, there are distinct reasons why people develop addiction. Exploring these causes and identifying which factors pose the most risk can provide better insight into prevention on both an individual and societal level. Understanding these causes also helps treatment centers and communities in places like Houston create more effective prevention and recovery programs.
In this article, we take a closer look at what causes addiction.
Exploring the Risk Factors and Causes of Addiction
Addiction is both physical and emotional or psychological, and the causes can differ depending on several factors, including genetics, mental health, physical health, the substance being used, and environmental pressures such as peer influence and stress.
While people may become addicted for one or two major reasons, it is usually a combination of many risk factors that come together to create the perfect storm.
Ideally, no one wants to develop addiction. People must reach a certain emotional state to risk months of withdrawal and relapse for a short‑term high. That state is often called despair.
The biggest risk factor is a traumatic or highly stressful event. Many people turn to substances after a major emotional blow, such as the death of a loved one, the loss of a home or job, or another life‑changing hardship. Beyond that, chronic stress can also increase the likelihood of substance use.
Peer pressure within a social group can lead individuals to use drugs or alcohol to fit in or cope with discomfort. This is especially common among teens who have not yet developed strong decision‑making skills. Most addictions begin during adolescence.
Stress within relationships or at work can lead to ongoing anxiety that wears down mental resilience. Drinking or misusing prescription medication becomes a coping mechanism for many, potentially leading to alcoholism or dependence on anti‑anxiety medication, antidepressants, or pain relievers if a chronic condition contributes to stress.
Beyond these psychological risk factors are the biological ones. Genetics plays a key role in how quickly someone can become dependent. Some people are more sensitive to certain substances than others. It is even possible to be born with resistance to some drugs or a high tolerance for alcohol. Because of genetics, the likelihood of addiction can also increase when multiple family members struggle with similar issues, pointing to a hereditary predisposition.
At the end of the day, these are risk factors. They indicate an increased possibility of addiction but are not definitive causes. For some, it may occur after a personal loss; for others, it might stem from youthful experimentation. By keeping these factors in mind, we can better educate our youth on avoiding substance use and reduce addiction rates by addressing availability, stress, and financial hardship.
Explaining Withdrawal and Tolerance
While risk factors explain why addiction happens, they do not explain how. Addiction develops over time; it is impossible to become addicted after a single use.
That does not mean experimenting with drugs is safe. Even if one hit does not create addiction, trying substances such as cocaine, nicotine, or heroin once increases the likelihood of repeated use.
Over time, the body becomes accustomed to a drug’s effects and builds tolerance. When tolerance increases, stopping substance use abruptly can cause painful withdrawal symptoms, which can occasionally be life‑threatening. Addiction, withdrawal, and tolerance are closely connected, though their timing and severity differ from person to person.
Behavioral Addictions Are Still Addiction
Much of this discussion focuses on substance misuse, but behavioral addiction is also real. People can become addicted to activities such as gambling, sex, video games, or shopping. These behaviors can disrupt daily life and relationships and may require professional help to overcome.
With proper treatment and support, recovery is possible. Behavioral addictions are just as serious as dependence on substances such as alcohol or opioids, and according to research, they share many neurological similarities.
As mentioned, addiction can develop for several reasons. Understanding the causes of addiction can help you or someone you love build a sustainable recovery plan and maintain long‑term sobriety.
If you or a loved one is struggling, comprehensive IOP treatment in Houston can help address the physical, emotional, and psychological sides of recovery. The Heights Treatment provides evidence‑based programs, personalized care, and private options suitable for individuals using self‑pay or out‑of‑network benefits.
Learn more about our Houston addiction programs
Sources
- Psychiatric Times. Almost Anyone Can Become an Addict. Psychiatric Times. Published August 3, 2011. Accessed October 14, 2022. https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/almost-anyone-can-become-addict
- Mayo Clinic. Drug addiction (substance use disorder) – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Published October 4, 2022. Accessed October 14, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112
- Whitworth M. Can You Really Become Addicted to a Drug After Just One Hit? Vice. Published October 23, 2015. Accessed October 14, 2022. https://www.vice.com/en/article/exqm9j/reasons-why-you-cant-get-addicted-to-drugs-after-one-hit
- Grant JE, Potenza MN, Weinstein A, Gorelick DA. Introduction to Behavioral Addictions. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 2010;36(5):233–241. doi:10.3109/00952990.2010.491884
