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Addiction affects millions of people’s lives, whether as addicts themselves or knowing someone who is addicted. If they or a loved one has a drug problem, it’s only natural to ask why.
Why do people abuse drugs?
Why do they start?
Why can’t they stop?
There can be deep, heartfelt reasons that led them to start, or it could stem from surface-level reasons like curiosity.
You may be here searching for answers for yourself or trying to learn more to help another. Whatever the reasons, our team will help you understand what drug addiction is, the reasons behind drug abuse, and how it can affect your body and brain.
There are several different reasons why people first try drugs, and many others that can explain why they might continue.
Each person who uses drugs has their own reasons. For those struggling with depression, drugs may give a feel-good high that makes you happy. For those who are anxious or stressed, it can help relax them. If you are going through a hard time in your life, drugs may help you cope. Peer pressure can push people to use drugs to fit in. Some may use drugs out of boredom.
Why do people misuse drugs? They can be used as a temporary crutch, but it’s an easy fix that creates a bigger problem. You may find that the more you use drugs, the more you need to take them.
If you or someone you know needs help with substance abuse, message or call New Growth Recovery to talk about treatment options. Our team provides compassionate care no matter where you are in your sobriety journey.
Many drugs work to increase levels of dopamine, also known as the “feel-good” hormone. The Butler Center for Research explains that dopamine is a neurotransmitter strongly associated with feelings of pleasure and reward. Once a person experiences this feeling, they may want to continue using drugs to achieve the same enjoyment.
Edward J. Khantzian, MD, reports in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry:
“Substances of abuse help … individuals to relieve painful effects or to experience or control emotions when they are absent or confusing.”
A person may have problems such as chronic pain or mental health issues that lead them to drug use as a coping mechanism. In this instance, they are using drugs to self-medicate.
Trying to manage mental health problems may lead someone to use drugs to provide relief. Drugs may temporarily help cope with their symptoms or combat the side effects of prescribed medication, but continuing may make matters worse.
Specific drugs can enhance performance, whether physically or mentally. Anabolic steroids are used to improve athletic performance, giving you a physical edge.
Stimulants such as cocaine can be used for academic performance and may help focus, keep you awake, and keep you alert. This drug is very addictive and can cause you to keep using it even though you are aware of the consequences.
If you or someone you know wants to seek help in their recovery, contact our cocaine rehab admission team today. We are here to help you take that step toward recovery.
Although adults may be susceptible to peer pressure, research shows that adolescents are more receptive to peer influence. Individual and relationship factors have been examined to see what causes a teen to be more likely to conform to their peers.
Generally, they have limited self-awareness when it comes to their attitudes and behaviors. They are more likely to change these traits depending on the company they keep. This can result in submitting to pressure from friends who use drugs.
People often look to substances to help manage stress. Hardships and strains in a person's life may lead them to use drugs to help handle stress levels.
Animal and human laboratory studies have shown that stress increases drug self-administration.
Grief is overwhelming. A person who suffers from the emotions that come with grief may have a hard time coping.
Substances may be used to:
Many people desire more excitement in their lives and may try to get it by experimenting with drugs. The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University’s teen survey showed that bored teens are often 50% more likely to use drugs or alcohol than teens who are not bored.
Life can be challenging. Wanting to escape problems at school or home may lead to substance use. When family and/or work life are causing distress, drugs can seem to provide relief from that reality.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that more than 90% of adults with substance use disorder (SUD) began using drugs in adolescence.
Because the brain isn’t fully developed, it will potentially be more vulnerable to the effects of the drug. Adolescents also lack impulse control, which can create a bigger risk for addiction.
There are biological, psychological, and environmental factors that cause people to get addicted to drugs. Drugs trigger the reward system in the brain. After continuous use, people can become reliant on a substance to elicit the same feeling.
Once people begin to use a drug regularly, going without it may cause the development of withdrawal symptoms, which can cause even heavier use.
Common symptoms of withdrawal include:
Are you trying to quit drug use and are experiencing symptoms of withdrawal? New Growth Recovery is here to assist you with our flexible substance abuse treatment. Call today, and we can get you started.
Yes. Everyone has a different life story. Depending on who you are biologically or who you’ve become through experience, those factors can increase the likelihood of drug addiction.
Some risk factors for addiction may be:
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Are you struggling with a substance use disorder? Taking the step toward a life without drugs can start with one phone call. Our compassionate team is here to help you on your road to a successful recovery.
Our goal is to make you feel valued, understood, and heard on your recovery journey. Everyone’s path to a sober life is different. Our team provides individualized treatment plans so we can address your unique journey.
Our services include:
Request a confidential call today or reach out to discuss your next steps.
The content in this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
