What Causes Drug and Substance Abuse

Recognizing drug abuse causes would help much in the prevention of drug abuse. But what is drug abuse? Drug abuse is not limited to just the use of drugs or alcohol. There is now a need to give a new definition for the words “drug abuse,” one which will grasp the real nature of this type of abuse. A new definition would assist in the development of drug abuse treatment in a far more effective and constructive manner.

The Definition of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse is the compulsive need and use of any substance, feeling, person, and behavior without regard to the potentially dangerous social, emotional, financial, psychological, and physical effects. This definition embraces a much broader aspects of drug abuse. In essence, it is the repeated and incessant drug use, which eventually escalates into a point where the person cannot control the cravings for the substance any longer. Typically, it starts with a person wanting to feel calmed or soothed as these drugs numb the system. People who are generally miserable or unhappy tend to turn to these drugs as a form of escape.

Therefore, it is important that the drug abuse causes be recognized and prevented because the initial motivators for drug use can eventually lead to addiction or abuse over time. So, what are drug abuse causes?

Causes of Drug Abuse

The most common cause of drug abuse is sheer curiosity. People would experiment on the drugs wanting to feel the “high” or the euphoric feeling that comes with use. Typically, the initial use out of curiosity usually leads to recreational drug use but rarely to drug abuse. Of course, the type of drug used plays a factor on development of drug abuse. Experimentation of drugs like heroin may eventually lead to drug addiction.

Some people’s drug abuse is caused by their dependence on their prescription drugs. These people have health conditions, which require intake of these drugs. When they start to take more than the recommended dosage, they eventually develop a dependency on the drugs. Frequently, they would continue to use the drugs even after their health problems have cleared up.

Peer pressure also plays a big factor in drug abuse. Peer pressure does not just happen during one’s adolescence. Even adults can feel pressured to take drugs in order to fit into a new group, workplace, class, or neighborhood.

People can also turn to drugs in order to cope with their problems. Their coping mechanism may be weak and they may see drugs as a way to escape the harsh realities of their lives.

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1 comment on “What Causes Drug and Substance Abuse”

1. podol skriver:
   February 9th, 2011 at 4:48 am

   one of my relative is into it.he has sold virtually all he has.he fall sick frequently.when treated,he goes back.he wants to stop but cant.what can we do to help?

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