As a result, some East Asian people may experience unpleasant physical sensations when drinking alcohol, meaning they may avoid drinking to excess or drinking in general. For example, many people of East Asian descent have a gene that makes it more difficult to break down alcohol. Some genetic factors in different races and ethnicities can play a role in the risk of addiction. RaceĪddiction can happen to anyone, regardless of their genes. It can also help medical experts better understand the risk factors for addiction and develop more targeted treatments. We do not choose the heritability of traits, but gaining a clearer understanding of genetics and addiction can help individuals better understand their addiction. People with more of these receptors are less likely to develop an addiction, while those with fewer D2 receptors are more likely to experience a substance misuse disorder. To some extent, the number of these receptors in the brain is determined by genetics. Researchers have found that a particular type of dopamine receptor, referred to as D2, can help predict a person’s chances of developing an addiction. Though the exact relationship between genetics and addiction is murky, scientists continue to conduct research to make that link clearer.
With genetics at play, the children of people who struggle with substance misuse and addiction can be at risk of developing the same challenges. But scientists estimate 40%-60% of a person’s risk of addiction can be tied to genetic factors. Experts have not pinpointed one particular gene that can be considered directly responsible for the risk of addiction. Genetics and addiction is a tricky topic. Genetic Factors in Addictionīiology and the traits we inherit are outside of our control, but a variety of different genetic factors can make it more likely for someone to develop a substance misuse disorder. Explore the potential factors of addiction for a better understanding of why people use drugs and alcohol. Just as addiction impacts everyone differently, it also has unique causes. Factors like peer pressure, risk-taking, curiosity and desire to feel drugs’ various effects play a role in why people start and continue to use illicit drugs. Drugs, such as heroin and cocaine, are known to be addictive and potentially deadly. Many other addictive substances are only obtained illegally. When people can no longer get these medications legally prescribed or cannot get the desired feeling from the regulated dosage, they may seek prescription medications illegally. But, if not used correctly, these drugs can be addiction-forming. Your doctor may prescribe you an opioid or a benzodiazepine for a legitimate medical reason, such as pain or anxiety. For example, many prescription drugs are addictive by nature. Other potentially addictive substances can be legally obtained. Drinking alcohol is socially acceptable, making it easy to forget its addictive nature. It is common to have drinks in a social setting and even expected in some situations. Alcohol is easy to obtain for adults of legal drinking age and often not difficult to obtain for people younger than 21. Some substances, like alcohol, are legal. Why do people start using substances that can potentially lead to addiction? Again, there is no simple answer to this question.
Addiction can persist even when a person wants to stop using the substance. Addiction, also referred to as substance use or substance misuse disorder, occurs when the use of a particular substance or substances affects a person’s ability to function in everyday life.ĭespite damage to your health and your relationships, addiction will continue to push you to continue the same pattern of behavior. Addiction is characterized by an intense psychological and physical drive to continue using a substance, despite knowing its negative effects. What’s an Addiction?īefore diving into the causes of addiction, take the time to consider what constitutes an addiction. Understanding what leads to drug and alcohol addiction can help you understand your own condition or that of a loved one. The factors of addiction and each person’s experience with addiction are different, but everyone can ask for help. Our genetics, our surroundings, our health and our personality can all come into play. A variety of factors can come into play, influencing someone’s risk of developing an addiction during their lifetime. Addiction is a complex disease with no single cause. Many people assume addiction happens due to personal failings or character flaws, but that is not the case. Addiction is often judged and misunderstood.
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