Substance use disorders, otherwise known as SUDs, are defined as the collective term for continuous and uncontrollable use of harmful substances despite one’s awareness of such harm.
About 3.8% of adults over the age of 18 have substance use disorder–that’s 9.5 million people in the world. However, only less than 15% of these millions of people receive treatment or even call for it in the first place.
If you’ve clicked this blog, then you know that those with SUDs try to hide their symptoms. The most challenging part of addiction, once again, is admitting the problem. Similarly, some are unaware of the genetic, environmental, psychological, or biological factors that come into play.
In attempts to educate one person at a time, it’s time to start with you.
The short answer is that predisposition implies higher chances or risks of developing a particular trait, habit, characteristic, or, in this case, a disorder.
Take diabetes, for example. You may be aware that when one or more family members have diabetes, the other members in line are likely to have it as well. That is to say, it’s “in the blood.”
But predisposition can also occur for psychological conditions.
Ever heard of intergenerational trauma? While studies are still ongoing, there’s a growing theory that when a close relative has experienced a multitude of traumatic events, the effects of that trauma can be passed down to the next generations. As a result, it may “predispose” a child to mental health disorders, such as depression.
When it comes to substance use disorders, however, you need to understand that predisposition does not guarantee you’ll have it. There are varying factors that could affect this.
The term “addiction genes” has been buzzing around for as long as anyone can remember. As it turns out, there’s some truth to that–but not quite.
There isn’t a specific gene that’s been found to cause addiction as of yet, but several studies have confirmed specific physical sites, or markers, in genes that affect how a person might metabolize substances such as alcohol, nicotine, and cocaine.
But, these findings are currently non-uniform. That is to say, genetic factors do have an effect, but do not necessarily incur the disorder’s development. In totality, research confirms that genetics may have about a 40-60% influence on addiction.
Observing others' regular consumption of drugs or alcohol can normalize the behavior, making it seem less risky and more acceptable. This is especially true if the individual is surrounded by people who regularly use substances, such as friends, family members, or colleagues.
Social normalization can lead an individual to believe that substance use is a normal and acceptable part of life. They may be more likely to experiment with substances themselves or to continue using them even if they are experiencing negative consequences.
Social Factors: Peer Pressure, Socioeconomic Status, And Exposure
Another thing to understand is that various social factors go into play, such as:
When your new friends invite you to drink and smoke with them, you’re going to want to say “Yes!” because you don’t want to feel left out. You want to be a part of their group and feel like you belong. In a matter of a few meetings, peer pressure has settled in.
You can’t deny that those with the lower socioeconomic statuses need coping mechanisms to deal with life. When unemployment, poverty, and poor housing are standing atop your head, you’re going to feel as if there’s no escape.
As a result, you may find yourself turning to substance abuse. And because you’re at a lack of resources, there’s less chance of getting any treatment.
Much like environmental factors, your exposure to substance use may affect your vulnerability to developing it. For instance, even mere exposure to drugs, alcohol, and tobacco via television can turn on a switch in your head. Again, you become used to seeing it. Substance use becomes normal to you.
The interplay between mental health conditions and substance use disorders is complex and sensitive. Psychological vulnerabilities are still considered quite taboo, so you must understand that certain mental health conditions are susceptible to substance use.
You also can’t forget about the chances of a dual diagnosis. You could have both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition, making either of these even more challenging to treat and the former easier to fall further into.
Those with inherently low levels of dopamine tend to be more susceptible to substance use disorder because the brain associates the substance with higher and more intense doses of dopamine.
When addiction strikes, the brain produces fewer amounts on its own, and that point is when you’re at risk of being dependent on drugs or alcohol.
It would be wise of you to think of addiction as hereditary, in the same way that diabetes is genetic. Family history is undeniably one of the most significant factors for substance use disorders.
When an addiction is passed from one generation to the other, it’s almost as if there’s no surprise when the last one develops it. After all, you inherit many things from your family tree, whether via genes, blood, or behavior.
While research does show that predisposition to substance use disorders exists to a certain extent, it’s certainly more important to understand that this is not set in stone.
Your genetics, environment, and the psychological happenings in your brain all play a role in your susceptibility to SUDs. The more you understand how they play as a whole, the easier you’ll recognize any signs and call for early intervention.
Remember that there needs to be no shame in admitting that you have a problem. Don’t forget that help is available. Contact Freedom Recovery if you need addiction treatment in Idaho. We offer programs such as IOP to help you get back on track.
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