What Are the Causes of Substance Abuse?

The causes of substance abuse can be hard to define, but most start with developing a dependence on the substance by accident. Sometimes substance abuse starts with the recreational use of drugs or alcohol to have fun or feel more comfortable at a party. In the case of an addiction to opiates, many people begin abusing prescription medication after building up a tolerance after an injury or surgery. While the causes of substance abuse can be different for each person, the first step in recovery is to begin a drug and alcohol detox program at a drug detox center that is safe and supportive.

Causes of Substance Abuse

It is possible to become dependent on a substance without getting addicted, but it takes work to wean off a substance you are addicted to safely. Dependence occurs when your body builds up a tolerance to a substance. This can mean that pain medication doesn’t work as well as it used to or takes more alcohol to feel the same effects over time. You are dependent on a substance and at risk for addiction when:

Trying to stop causes unwanted physical symptoms.
You need more and more of the substance to feel the effects.
You start using medication more often than prescribed.
Your use keeps rising, and you don’t stop.
You start using the substance to cope with stress, anxiety or depression.
You have problems at work, school or home due to your use.
You spend a lot of time thinking about the substance and how to get it.
You experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit.

Ultimately, understanding why someone is abusing substances can help them better manage and treat their substance use disorder. Generally, people who are struggling with drugs or alcohol may be using substances to cope with some form of physical or mental pain, such as trauma, depression, anxiety or stress. In addition, a person’s environment and genetics can also contribute to the development of an addiction. Having a family history of substance abuse, being exposed to substances in the home, and growing up in an unstable environment can all increase one’s risk of developing an addiction.

Dependence on a substance is the physical start of getting addicted. As you become more dependent, you are more likely to experience behavioral and emotional changes. Addiction means you are no longer able to control your abuse, and you will do what it takes to get more. A professional medical detox program is critical for safely removing toxins and decreasing tolerance.

Treatment for Substance Abuse

Addiction treatment can be focused on the causes of substance abuse so that you can learn how to prevent a relapse in the future. It starts with a period of detox so that you can withdraw in a supportive environment. While you are in treatment, you will work with a counselor to identify:

Your causes of substance abuse
Strategies to prevent a future relapse
A treatment plan that is right for your needs
Your support system when you return to the community

Treatment allows you to talk about what led to your substance abuse and how you want to see your recovery move forward. You will work on a personalized addiction treatment plan to figure out what to do next. You may be ready to return home after detox, or you might consider a specialized substance abuse treatment program.

Moving Forward From Physical Addiction

As a person in recovery, detox is only your first step. When you work with a counselor, you will discuss what your treatment choices are. Once you are physically free from a substance, you begin to treat your addiction’s emotional and behavioral components. This can mean working with an individual counselor to address trauma, one reason people abuse substances. You might work on building a better balance in your life to keep stress levels under control.

As you strengthen during the recovery process, your ability to handle stress will improve. Your goal should be to meet others in recovery and find a sponsor, as they will become part of your support network. Build such a network, and you will have an easier time remaining sober.

Find Addiction Treatment Today at Tides Edge Detox

If you are struggling with the causes of substance abuse and ready to begin a detox, it’s time to get the help you deserve. Here at Tides Edge Detox, we offer comprehensive detox programs and programs designed to meet specific needs. For instance, we offer:

Contact Tides Edge Detox at 866.723.3127, or contact us online and find your way back to a sober life. Help is waiting for you, but you have to decide to reach out.