Why Do People Develop Addictions? Understanding the Root Causes of Substance Abuse

Addictive behaviors of any sort can negatively impact your life. If you or someone you know is suffering from any type of addiction, including substance abuse, you may find it affecting your everyday life in detrimental ways. Addiction is a complex illness, but it’s treatable with the right addiction counselor and recovery plan. Dr. Gene Devers and associates at Philly Family Life Counseling, LLC provide both addiction counseling and support groups to those impacted by substance abuse. If you or a loved one suffer from addictive behaviors, it can be helpful to understand the root causes of substance abuse and how it affects the brain.

The Root Causes of Substance Abuse

Addiction has a complex effect on the brain; many substances release the chemical known as dopamine, which is a pleasure response that also happens when we do things we enjoy, like exercise or eating. This is a signal to our brain to take pleasure in what’s happening and reward the body for doing it again, which is why our body sometimes craves the substances that also negatively impact it, therefore forming an addiction. However, using substances alone doesn’t cause an addiction. There are many root causes for addiction:

• Predisposition: Genetics suggest some people are predisposed to addiction. This is especially apparent if your parents or grandparents exhibit addictive behaviors.
• Stress: Because substances release a pleasure response, many people use them to counteract stress.
• Mental health disorders: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can cause people to turn to substance abuse as a form of a treatment plan.
• Peer pressure and environment: Many people develop substance addiction when others in their regular environment and everyday life also engage in such behavior.

Recovery is Possible – Call PFLC Today

There are many root causes of addiction, and understanding them is just the first step toward recovery. If you or a loved one are struggling with addictive behaviors, it may be time to get help. Call Philly Family Life Counseling, LLC today at 215-677-3810 for more information about addiction counseling, to set up an appointment, or to learn about our Relationships in Recovery support group. Addiction doesn’t have to control your life. Get help today!