Substance abuse is something that cuts across all races and classes in society. It takes the lives of over 11 million people each year. I’m guessing you, someone in your family or a close friend have struggled. You can see the destruction it does to families and relationships.
We can’t predict ahead of time that one will become addicted to drugs or alcohol. Two people could drink the same amount and one might become an alcoholic and the other might not. There are all sorts of risk factors that may make someone more vulnerable. Again, just because these risk factors may be present, doesn’t mean the person will become an addict. These are just things to watch for according to New Dimensions Day Treatment Center.
Risk factors for substance abuse
Stress
This is one of the biggest risk factors. It is so easy to turn to drugs and alcohol as a quick fix to reduce stress.
Who doesn’t experience stress? It’s all over the place and comes from several different sources. It can come from the environment, relationships, health, work, and finances. If these stressors on ongoing and you continually use drugs or alcohol, then you might become dependent on them to cope with your stress.
Exercise is the best way to decrease stress. It’s better than medication. Other ways include meditation, yoga, listening to music or engaging in a hobby.
Peer pressure and substance abuse
If your friends drink a lot and use substances, then you are at a greater risk for abuse, especially if you have a hard time saying no. Fitting in, especially during the teen years can be a strong motivator.
This peer pressure doesn’t necessarily stop during the teen years. There are plenty of adults who want you to have just 1 more glass of wine, or do shots with them. They might tell you that you are no fun, or a stick in the mud.
No matter what age you are, you will feel better in the long run if you stick to your boundaries. Each person has a different limit as to how much they can drink. If you say no and your friends keep pushing you, you might want to hang out with people who will respect your boundaries.
Access to drugs and alcohol
Obviously as adults we have all the access we want to alcohol. My guess is you could walk some place to get beer or wine, whether it be your drug store, grocery store or gas station. Teens may have easy access to their parents supply.
Drugs may be a little more challenging to obtain than alcohol. Although once you know where to get your substances, my guess is you can have them fairly easily.
Mental health
If you struggle with any kind of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder you are at a greater risk. It may be easier to self medicate than admit you have a problem.
Anyone who abuses substances knows that they don’t take your problems away. They are still there at the end of the day. Reaching out for help is actually a sign of strength.
Family history and substance abuse
If this runs in your family, you also have a greater risk of developing it. I’ve heard them say that genetics load the gun, environment pulls the trigger.
If this runs in your family, educate your children so they don’t become another statistic.
Job
Certain jobs have a higher risk of substance use. Some of these include, firefighters, police offices, lawyers, construction workers, health care professionals, and hospitality workers.
Again, this isn’t to say that you will develop a problem if you are in one of these professions, but to be aware. All jobs are stressful and having healthy ways to manage that stress is your best bet.
Trauma and substance abuse
Anyone who has experienced a trauma is at greater risk for substance use, especially if the person has post-traumatic stress disorder. It is a way to numb their emotional pain.
Lack of a support system
If you don’t have anyone to turn to in times of difficulty, you might just choose drugs and alcohol. Perhaps there is someone you can turn to that you didn’t think about. Is there a co-worker, mentor, family member, clergy, neighbor or someone in your group that you could talk to? Perhaps you have been there for a friend, and now you can use their support.
If you struggle with substance abuse, therapy is always an option. Please give me a call at 713-304-6554 if I can help.
Take care,
Debbie
