Addiction knows no bounds and can occur in people of all beliefs and backgrounds, regardless of how a person is brought up or their morals. Drug abuse can begin with occasional, experimental use of a recreational drug but then it becomes more frequent. It can also begin with exposure to medications a person is prescribed or given from family or friends who have been prescribed medication. Some people are more prone to drug and alcohol abuse than others. There are many risk factors contributing to drug abuse.
What Are the Signs of Drug Abuse?
Although signs and symptoms of drug use may vary depending on the substance abused, below are several things to look out for. Also, just because a person exhibits any of the below signs is not indicative of definite drug use.
Behavioral changes – behavioral changes, including exaggerated efforts to keep information about his or her life private such as keeping family members out of his or her room or where he or she goes; or drastic behavioral changes and changes in relationships with friends and family, such as sudden withdrawal. Excessive anger or aggression and problems with the law are some examples.
Neglected appearance – poor grooming habits or lack of interest in appearance or clothing.
Physical health issues – weight loss or gain, lack of motivation and energy, red eyes.
Problems at work or school – frequently missing work or school or a sudden decrease in performance.
Financial issues – frequent or sudden requests for money without a convincing or reasonable explanation; or discovery that money has been stolen or items are missing may also be indicative that items are being sold to support a drug use habit.
What Are the Factors Contributing to Drug Abuse?
First, it is important to note that not everyone at risk for drug abuse will use drugs or become addicted. Furthermore, a risk factor for one person may not be one for another.
Family History
Having one or more family members with a history of addiction is likely the most dangerous of factors contributing to drug abuse. Children typically look up to their siblings and parents as role models. Furthermore, if they are exposed to drug culture on a regular basis, it can increase risk. Family history to drug abuse is not only a learned behavior, however. There is also a genetic risk to addiction.
Other Familial Risk Factors
Factors such as marital status of parents, childhood maltreatment, parent-child relationships, child perception, level of parental education and familial socioeconomic status each can play a role in the likelihood for the development of substance abuse.
Age
Although any person of any age can become addicted to substances, teens face the highest level of risk due to peer pressure. This is partly due to the struggles of puberty, when adolescents strive to look cool and to fit in. If they associate with those who use drugs, they are more likely to be pressured into using as well.
Other Environmental Factors
People who have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual abuse or any form of trauma are more likely to develop substance use disorder, in addition to those who witness people they know using drugs or alcohol excessively.
Age of First Use
People who begin using drugs or drinking alcohol earlier in life are more likely to develop a substance use disorder compared to those who begin in adulthood.
How to Get Help with Drug Abuse
For the best possible outcome of addiction treatment, it is important to find an addiction treatment facility that cares. The compassionate staff at Laguna View Detox understand how important mind-body wellness is in achieving and maintaining sobriety. For the best possible care for you or your loved one battling substance abuse, reach out to us to get started today.
