It’s a question that anyone struggling with substance abuse — and anyone who loves a person fighting addictive behaviors — has asked themselves: what is the root cause of addiction?
Scientific research has not identified a single cause, life event, or family history factor that will “always” lead to addiction. However, many people battling addiction share several risk factors in common, and understanding these risk factors can be helpful whether you’re seeking addiction treatment for yourself or want to help your friends or family members.
Several risk factors that may cause a person to abuse drugs or alcohol are listed below, although this list is far from exhaustive. The more risk factors a person displays, the more likely they are to be susceptible to substance abuse.
Biology & Genetic History
The Genetics of Addiction
Mental Health & Wellness
Environment
- Direct or indirect physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- Exposure to violence or other traumatic experiences
- Chronic stress and anxiety
- Economic instability, such as food and housing insecurity
- Lack of access to adequate healthcare (often due to financial barriers, lack of health insurance, location, and other limiting factors)
- Societal discrimination (including factors like racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, economic discrimination, and more)