Factors that Impact Addiction and Problematic substance use
The journey through addiction or substance use varies from person to person, often resulting from an intricate blend of biological, psychological, and social influences that may explain why someone is battling addiction or substance misuse. For instance, certain risk factors associated with addiction can include: genetic predispositions, brain functioning, prior trauma, cultural contexts, or social challenges like poverty and other obstacles that hinder access to vital social determinants of health. The social determinants of health refer to the societal and economic circumstances affecting an individual's life, significantly influencing their overall well-being and the issues related to addiction and substance use. Among these determinants, several are notably impactful:
• Protection from discrimination and violence
• Social belonging
• Access to financial resources
Although social determinants of health may play a role in addiction and substance use, there is no singular list of factors that encapsulate the multifaceted origins of addiction. Click here for further details regarding the Social Determinants of Health.
A crucial aspect to examine is the interplay between mental health and addictions. When a mental health issue coincides with addiction or substance use, it is referred to as a concurrent disorder. While it’s challenging to provide precise statistics on the prevalence of concurrent disorders, research indicates that over 50% of individuals pursuing treatment for addiction also contend with a mental illness. Many individuals facing addiction or substance use concerns also encounter stigma and discrimination. Stigma is characterized as a negative stereotype, while discrimination manifests as behavior stemming from this perception. The effects of stigma and discrimination can deeply affect individuals, leading to diminished self-worth, hesitance in seeking help, and feelings of loneliness. Those with concurrent disorders often navigate multiple, overlapping layers of discrimination due to their struggles with both addiction and mental health challenges. Although there’s still a vast realm to explore concerning the intricacies of substance use and addiction, studies have shown that no one intentionally chooses to become addicted, nor is it a reflection of moral deficiency or frailty.
Researchers have identified certain elements in an individual's life that can decrease the likelihood of experiencing substance use or addiction-related challenges. Known as protective factors, these include: having a nurturing childhood with a positive adult mentor, possessing motivation and personal aspirations, participating in meaningful endeavors, and being part of a supportive and reliable community. As one expert in addiction research articulates, “The antidote to addiction is connection.”