Who is Most at Risk for Drug Addiction?

It’s true that some people have a higher risk of abusing and becoming addicted to drugs. Knowing your risk factors can help you to be proactive in avoiding triggers and other situations that may make drug use more likely.

Here are some of the most common risk factors associated with drug addiction, according to the Mayo Clinic:

Being a man.

Even though progression of addictive disorders has been seen to be faster among women, men have a higher likelihood of becoming addicted to drugs.

Family history.

Is drug addiction common in your family? Researchers believe there may be a genetic predisposition to drug addiction, meaning if someone in your family has dealt with drug addiction, you have a higher risk of dealing with it yourself. This is only true among blood relatives, such as a parent, grandparent or sibling.

Mental disorders.

Having other mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can make you more susceptible to drug addiction. This is because these disorders may sometimes lead to coping through drugs, alcohol or other substances.

Lack of family involvement.

When parents aren’t involved in their children’s lives, or their children simply lack supervision, risk of drug addiction goes up. This is because, not only is it easier for the child to acquire and abuse drugs, but it also promotes difficult family situations and a lack of a bond, which may compel drug use.

Taking a highly addictive drug.

Some drugs are more addictive than others. For instance, cocaine is known as a highly addictive drug. Painkillers may also create a faster tolerance and dependency. Even so, taking drugs that are thought to be “less addictive” can still put you on a path to drug addiction.

While the above risk factors may increase a person’s chances of becoming addicted to drugs, anyone can succumb to drug abuse and addiction. Addiction recovery programs can help. Find more information on treatment for this life-altering problem today.