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Understanding the Psychological Factors that Influence Addiction and Substance Abuse and Health
In spite of great advances in both addiction and mental health treatments, there are still many people who struggle with addiction and substance use. And while there are a variety of physical factors that contribute to the development of addiction and substance abuse, there is one factor that many people often overlook: psychological factors.
At their core, addiction and substance abuse are psychological problems. Furthermore, psychological factors play a critical role in both addiction and substance use in terms of the health of individuals suffering from these issues. Here’s what you need to know about the psychological factors that influence addiction and substance abuse, and their impact on your health.
The Role of Stress
Stress is perhaps the most widely-recognized psychological factor in the development of substance abuse and addiction. Stress can come in many different forms — from traumatic experiences and negative life events to physical and emotional ailments — and can lead to the misuse of substances as a form of relief or coping.
The Role of Mental Illness
Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are known to be strongly correlated with substance abuse and addiction. This is because many of these conditions can reduce feelings of emotional well-being, increase feelings of distress and hopelessness, and impair the ability to control one’s own impulses. As a result, individuals with mental health conditions are more likely to misuse substances in order to cope with the symptoms and side effects of their condition.
The Role of Genetics
Genetics also play a role in addiction and substance use. Certain genetic predispositions are believed to contribute to the likelihood of developing an addiction, as well as the severity of the addiction. For example, studies have found that some genetic variations such as the D2 dopamine receptor gene have been linked to increased risk for substance use disorders.
The Impact of Addiction and Substance Use on Health
The physical and mental health of individuals with addiction and substance abuse problems is significantly impacted by their substance use. Physically, substance use can cause both short-term and long-term effects, leading to a variety of physical ailments such as organ damage, poor nutrition, and physical intoxication. Mentally, long-term substance use can lead to changes in brain chemistry and function, as well as increased risk for mental health conditions.
The best way to address addiction and substance use is to recognize the underlying psychological factors that contribute to these issues. Individuals who are struggling with addiction and substance use can get help by seeking out mental health and addiction treatment specialists who can assess and address the underlying psychological factors that are influencing the addiction and substance use. With the right treatment, individuals can learn healthy coping strategies and reduce their risk of developing long-term health complications from addiction and substance use.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or substance use, please don’t hesitate to seek help. There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals at all stages of addiction and substance use and accessing these resources can make a significant difference.
