Tons of people face issues when it comes to understanding the reason behind the onset of addiction. Addiction refers to a chronic condition which alters how the human brain functions, including its desires and the way of learning. In this article, we will explore addiction’s causes, right from the brain’s role to social pressures. Moreover, we will also highlight some of the most effective ways to prevent it. Let us get started and find out the answer to the question of “how does addiction begin?”:

How Does Addiction Begin: Understanding What Addiction is

Definition of Addiction

As per the NIDA (National Institute of Drug Abuse), addiction is deemed a chronic brain condition. This means that it can potentially last for a very long time. Moreover, it can also return. The one’s who is suffering from addiction often feel a very intense urge for consuming specific substances, including marijuana, opioids, alcohol, or other illicit drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, etc. They might require a substance so intensely that it becomes tough to abstain from using it.

Addiction directly affects the rewarding system of the human brain and leads towards psychological dependence or physical dependence. Addiction includes both needing so much of the substance that it feels truly impossible to breathe without it, as well as requiring more time due to tolerance. This specific condition also involves substance use disorders which are synonymous with drug abuse, alcohol addiction, as well as dependence on different things such as prescription pain medicines.

Common Myths & Misconceptions about Addiction

Many individuals believe that addiction is merely a lack of willpower or even a kind of moral failure. This idea is completely wrong, primarily because addiction includes numerous types of complex changes in the brain. Also, it can begin for numerous reasons and not merely because of lack of self-control or harmful choices.

It is not only related to seeking the thrill which drugs like heroin or marijuana offer and nor is it restricted to teenagers or young adults consuming club drugs to feed their curiosity. Substance abuse has the potential to catch any individual, irrespective of the age group or background they belong to, off-guard.

Another major is that being dependent on drugs steadily sneaks up on every individual in a similar way. Some individuals may try consuming opioid painkillers post an injury and instantly feel urges that pave the way towards misuse, thereby exhibiting how quickly drug dependence occurs.

Furthermore, genetics may enhance the risk, but it does not seal an individual’s fate in terms of addiction; not every person with a history of addiction in their family will face issues related to substance abuse themselves. To put it simply, every person’s risk depends on numerous other factors, out of which one is their family history.

The Brain & Addiction

The Effect Substances Have on the Brain

Substances alter how the human brain functions by targeting the nucleus accumbens or the pleasure center. The pleasure center of the brain, as its name suggests, controls feelings such as happiness and motivation. When someone consumes drugs, this particular area becomes flooded with dopamine, a neurotransmitter which produces feelings of joy in individuals.

This flooding caused to the dose of drugs taken leads to intense happiness or feeling high. With time, the human brain wishes to repeat these feelings, which in turn leads to more drug usage. The constant chase towards feelings of joy as well as the high state can also alter other portions of the brain, specifically those which are linked to learning as well as decision-making.

These alterations make quitting and abstaining completely from the habituated dosage of the harmful substance very tough, thereby pushing individuals towards the harmful path of addiction even if they wish to stop. Drugs such opioids, methamphetamine or meth, and alcohol entangle with the brain’s neurotransmitters way beyond just dopamine. This leads to changes in the mood as well as the long-term behavior of people.

The Role Neurotransmitters Play in Addiction

It is evident that neurotransmitters have a major role when it comes to addiction. Drugs make the human brain release dopamine. This often feels like a prize or rewards and makes individuals want to consume drugs again. The higher the frequency of using drugs such as opioids and other stimulants, the more their brain becomes habituated to the high levels which dopamine provides.

Over time, even regular or generic activities, including eating good food or spending time with loved ones, might not offer happiness anymore. Dopamine release from the usage of drugs functions as a trophy or reward besides encouraging repeated behavior. Physical addiction occurs mainly because using drugs repetitively can alter how the brain responds to joy or similar pleasurable feelings. The body begins depending on specific substances such as opioids, benzodiazepines such as Ativan, Librium, etc., or even stimulants to feel happy or merely normal.

Psychological Factors

Emotional Triggers

Teenagers fighting depression or anxiety may turn towards drugs as well as alcohol for getting some relief. These substances often seem like instant fixes for any sort of emotional pain they are going through. Feeling down, they might reach for alcohol beverages or harmful pills as a way out. This specific method of self-medications can instantly turn into addiction.

Peer pressure is another key contributor which leads to people starting drug usage amongst young individuals. Friends may urge individuals to consume drugs as an avenue to fit into the circle or look cool. Abstaining or refusing can be a hard thing, primarily when one wishes to belong.

Mental Health Disorders & Addiction

Co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety usually go hand-in-hand with addiction. Individuals may turn to using drugs as a method to manage painful feelings or mental health issues. Drugs such as opioids, sedatives, as well as alcohol can temporarily make individuals feel good. However, they also amplify the dependence on harmful substances. Addiction does not happen in isolation; it often comes from untreated mental health issues. Hence, both physical and mental well-being are important.

Social Influences

Peer Pressure

Peer pressure has a big role to play in terms of how addiction begins, especially amongst teenagers and young adults. Kids sometimes feel pushed by friends in order to try out harmful drugs and alcohol. This push often leads them down the very dangerous path of drug misuse as well as addiction.

Even if an individual begins consuming drugs as something which is fun or a kind of experiment, the social push from friends holds the potential to turn casual consumption into a serious threat. This influence is mostly strong, primarily because young individuals wish to fit in with the “cool” group of friends.

If every other individual is trying out substances such as bath salts, cannabinoids (synthetic), or even smoking e-cigarettes, the intense pressure to become a part of the circle turns into something which is very hard to resist.

Family History & Genetic Factors

Family history along with genetic factors often create the stage for the problem that addiction is. If an individual’s parents or grandparents faced trouble related to drug abuse, the individual has a higher probability of going through similar issues. Research shows that genetics amplify the threat of developing an addiction by approximately 40% to 60%. This does not mean that every individual with a family history related to drug usage will surely experience addiction, but it does amplify their likelihood of experiencing it. Your home environment is another major factor which plays a massive role in how you perceive and approach substances.

Exposure to hard drugs at a young age, either via family members consuming them, or attitudes towards drug usage being more relaxed, has potential to influence your perception when on taking drugs.

Different Stages of Addiction

Initial Use

People begin consuming drugs for numerous reasons. Some are curious regarding the experience and wish to try something different and new. Others feel pressured because of friends whereas some consume drugs in an attempt to escape tension or emotional pain. This specific stage is generally where the journey towards addiction starts.

It may begin with consuming painkillers, smoking stuff, or trying out recreational drugs at gatherings. The first time when an individual uses drugs, they may feel great, primarily due to the dopamine release.

As they continue using the drug, the body requires more of the same feeling. This leads towards them getting closer to abusing the substance on a regular basis. Every step takes them further deep into a very dangerous territory, thereby moving towards dependence followed by full-fledged addiction.

Abuse

Drugs may also result in abuse. Abuse begins when someone utilizes drugs in such a way which harms their body or life or both. This might include consuming a drug too much, taking it for reasons which were not prescribed by a medical professional or doctor, or opting for drugs because they alter how you feel.

Abuse often amplifies from trying to get rid of problems such as stress or sadness. Tolerance slowly and steadily develops, thereby leading to different withdrawal symptoms in the absence of the substance.

As tolerance builds, individuals require more of the substance or drug in order to feel its effects. They might begin missing work or school, getting into brawls or other troubles with the regulations, and facing financial issues because they spend a majority of their earnings to obtain drugs.

Dependency

Dependency takes place when both the brain as well as the body begin requiring the drug in order to feel normal. The brain becomes habituated to the drug, which is why people require more of it in order to get the same effect.

If they abstain from the habit of consuming the drug, they might experience sickness or uncomfortableness. These are clear symptoms of withdrawal. Drugs such as opioids, like morphine, enhance the occurrence of dependency faster.

Individuals with drug dependency may need to visit detoxification centers or seriously consider drug rehabilitation to abstain from the usage of drugs in a safe manner. IT is tough because their bodies have become adjusted to having the substance or drug readily available.

Without proper help, breaking free from the shackles of addiction can seem like an impossible task primarily because of intense withdrawal symptoms as well as prolonging urges for substances such as narcotics or painkillers.

Addiction

Addiction starts with the requirement or urge for pleasure, which eventually leads towards more substance use. The list of substances include opioids, hallucinogens, depressants, etc. This loop or addiction cycle begins because these drugs or substances release dopamine, which promotes feelings of joy and happiness. Soon, your brain requires more in order to obtain the same effect. This is known as tolerance.

In 2022, approximately 48 millions U.S. adults were diagnosed with different types of addictions. However, only 10 million out of the 48 got treatment. Drugs like rohypnol and opiates often play a major role in addiction figures. Individuals may also get seriously hooked to medications which were originally prescribed for relieving pain or anxiety, such as codeine or diazepam (Valium). Stress, trauma, as well as being around other individuals who consume drugs can significantly enhance your chances of getting addicted.

Identifying the Signs of Addiction

Behavioral Changes

The first step in identifying signs of addiction is looking for behavioral changes. Individuals who are addicted to drugs often exhibit major changes in the way they act or behave. They may begin facing trouble at school, university, or work due to their addiction. Moreover, their performance drops, they start missing days more frequently.

Loved ones witness these changes and might get worried. Constantly being late, not giving much thought to personal goals, and most importantly, ignoring responsibilities become very common. Financial troubles also tie majorly into behavioral changes because of drug addiction.

Physical Signs & Symptoms

Moving forward from how addiction alters behavior, we witness clear physical symptoms. These signs signify if an individual is struggling with addiction. For example, drug users may exhibit weight gain or loss without striving to. They may also have red, bloodshot eyes as well as pupils that are way bigger or smaller than they are supposed to be. Some individuals’ skin alters too; it can appear pale or have spots.

Psychological Indicators

Individuals with addiction may feel strong urges or cravings. They think a lot about their favorite drug. This is one of the most common signs of addiction. Their feelings have more control over them than they comprehend. They may feel extremely sad or nervous in the absence of the drug. Sometimes, they might consume drugs such as opioids or inhalants in order to feel better or let go of problems.

Risk Factors

Age of First Use

Early usage of drugs marks a major step in the direction of addiction. As mentioned earlier, teenagers and young adults generally face peer pressure to try out drugs as well as alcohol. This potentially leads towards dangerous addictive disorders in the future. Drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta, as well as inhalants are some examples which may be tried in the beginning.

Using these substances or drugs early on messes majorly with brain development. It amplifies the chances of becoming addicted. Knowing this aids in understanding how important it really is to avoid early-on exposure to harmful substances such as drugs or alcohol.

Social Environment

Social environment has a significant role in beginning drug usage. Troubled family life, friends who provoke you to try out substances, and tough experiences push individuals towards drugs. If your family tree has a substance abuse history, you may face more risks.

This involves watching family members consume drugs or alcohol as the sole way to manage stress. Events such as parties or reunions may make consuming drugs seem common and safe, which it really is not.

Stress & Trauma

Stress and trauman often get individuals introduced to drugs. Both stress as well as trauma plays major roles in beginning addiction. Individuals take the help of drugs as well as alcohol when they are feeling extremely stressed or post scary events.This may include the usage of opioid painkillers, Klonopin (clonazepam), or inhalants, as a method to escape problematic feelings. Teenagers dealing with tough emotions such as anxiety or depression are highly likely to try out these substances.

Finding relief from pain, especially emotional, can lead individuals towards the path of addiction. Once they begin using harmful substances, their brain chemistry starts changing. The requirement for more drugs grows stronger with the passage of time.

Preventing Addiction

Education & Awareness

Teaching individuals regarding the dangers which drugs pose is a crucial step in the fight against addiction. Schools, universities, community groups, as well as online forums and platforms share important information related to regarding how drugs such as opioids, inhalants, as well as date rape drugs like GHB can hook a person into addiction. They converse about safe medicine usage in order to avoid issues.

Programs also exhibit how early drug usage adds to the high-risk of developing addiction. Sharing stories or facts aids everyone in understanding why avoiding addictive drugs and substances matter. This specific approach provides support to health-conscious choices, especially when it comes to young people who are facing peer pressure and stress.

Early Strategies for Intervention

1. Talk openly regarding the dangers which drugs such as opioids, inhalants, etc., pose. Doing so will aid in building understanding and awareness from a very young age.
2. Pay close attention to the initial signs of drug usage, including sudden behavioral changes or unexplained health problems.
3. Make a safe and supportive environment where children feel very safe when discussing their personal feelings and the challenges they are facing.
4. Encourage activities which promote health as well as well being in order to minimize the appeal of drugs.
5. Recognize emotional triggers which might lead individuals to use drugs, such as stress or sadness.
6. Stay on the lookout for prescriptions which could be misused, including chlordiazepoxide or Ambien (zolpidem), especially if insomnia is an issue.
7. Provide guidance related to handling peer pressure and taking good decisions.
8. Teach skills for coping in order to deal with issues without turning to developing drug use disorder by consuming excessive drugs.
9. Utilize earl screenings for issues related to mental health since they can amplify the risk of facing addiction.
10. Foster robust connections with family members and friends as a barrier for protection against drug use.
11. Get involved if and when you notice indications related to drug abuse by seeking help from reputed healthcare professionals who are a part of a renowned treatment clinic.
12. Help in establishing a healthy routine which includes exercising, indulging in hobbies, and being a part of healthy and positive social interactions.

Support Systems & Healthy Relationships

Having strong support systems besides healthy relationships is very important for preventing addiction. Individuals who are surrounded by families who care for them and good friends are highly less likely to begin using substances such as opioids or inhalants.

These bonds provide emotional security, thereby making it more convenient for handling the challenges of life without turning to drugs or substances for relief. Family involvement also plays a major role in keeping individuals from consuming or even trying out harmful drugs, even in environments which have drugs readily available.

Constructing a reliable network of support also involves connecting with those groups which completely understand the battle against struggle. For anyone who is facing temptations or starting to consume harmful drugs or substances, merely knowing that there are multiple places to turn to for help can make a significant difference.

When to Ask for or Seek Help

Consulting Healthcare Professionals

Drug addiction starts slow, but quickly gains pace. If drug usage is getting out of control, leading to harm, or causing withdrawal symptoms, connecting to and consulting with healthcare professionals is a very smart move. Doctors, as well as addiction specialists possess the right tools as well the knowledge to tackle drug addiction. They can help you navigate the process of recovery with professional support. This involves making a plan which fits your requirements perfectly.

Options for addiction treatments vary from individual to individual. Some might require medicines to deal with any sort of withdrawal symptom. Others may find aid in therapy or counseling sessions, as well as rehab programs.

Healthcare professionals will provide suggestions regarding the best path forward as per the patient’s unique situation and requirements. These experts have a major role in overcoming challenges which are linked to or associated with opioid epidemic, roofie misuse, as well as inhalant use.

Final Thoughts

Addictions begin small and develop over time. Curiosity, needing to fit in with friend circles, or attempting to feel better can lead individuals to try out drugs or alcohol. Once an individual’s brain gets habituated to harmful substances and drugs, it wants more.

Knowing the reasons behind why addiction starts can aid in stopping it at the earliest. If you see indications of addictions in yourself or other individuals, getting help quickly is very important. Getting support from family members, friends, and professionals can aid in the recovery process at places such as AllianceMD.