Substance use can begin for many different reasons. You may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with stress, manage painful emotions, fit in with others, or simply because you want to feel different for a while. What starts as occasional use can sometimes develop into something much harder to control.
Understanding the risk factors for substance use disorder can help you recognize when occasional use has become a serious concern. If you are struggling yourself or worried about someone you love, knowing what to look for can be an important first step toward getting help.
What Is Substance Use Disorder?
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a medical condition in which a person continues using alcohol or another substance despite experiencing problems because of their use. It can affect your thoughts, behavior, relationships, work, school, finances, and physical health.
SUD exists on a spectrum. Not everyone experiences it in the same way, and a person does not have to lose everything before their substance use becomes serious. Some people may recognize a problem early, while others may continue using despite significant consequences.
Addiction is not simply a matter of lacking willpower. Repeated substance use can change how the brain responds to rewards, cravings, and decision-making. With appropriate treatment and support, however, recovery is possible.
What Are the Risk Factors for Substance Use Disorder?
There is no single reason someone develops a substance use disorder. Several factors can increase your risk, and having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop an addiction.
- Family history and genetics. If addiction runs in your family, you may have a greater vulnerability to developing a substance use disorder.
- Mental health concerns. Depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health conditions may lead you to use substances as a way to cope with difficult emotions. When substance use and mental health concerns occur together, both need attention.
- Trauma and chronic stress. Ongoing stress at home, work, or in relationships can also make substances seem like an easy way to escape, as can unresolved trauma.
- Early or frequent substance use. Your environment matters. Spending time around people who regularly misuse substances or having easy access to alcohol or drugs can influence your behavior.
Other factors can include social isolation, peer pressure, a history of risky behavior, and experiencing significant life changes or adversity.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Risk factors tell you what may increase someone’s vulnerability. Warning signs can tell you that a problem may already be developing.
You may notice that you or your loved one:
- Uses more of a substance or uses it more often than intended
- Has difficulty cutting back or stopping
- Experiences strong cravings
- Spends significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from substance use
- Misses work, school, family responsibilities, or important events
- Experiences relationship or financial problems related to substance use
- Continues using despite physical or emotional consequences
- Becomes secretive or defensive about their substance use
- Gives up activities or relationships they once enjoyed
- Needs more of a substance to experience the same effect
- Experiences withdrawal symptoms when they stop using
You might also notice changes in mood, sleep, appearance, behavior, or social relationships. A single sign does not necessarily mean someone has a substance use disorder, but several changes occurring together deserve attention.
What Should You Do If You Are Concerned?
If you recognize these signs in yourself, try not to let shame keep you from asking for help. You do not need to wait until your substance use causes a major crisis. Talking with a healthcare professional or addiction treatment provider can help you understand what is happening and what options are available.
If you are concerned about someone you love, choose a calm time to talk. Let them know what you have noticed without attacking, judging, or threatening them. You might say, “I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling lately, and I’m worried about you. How can I support you?”
You cannot force someone into recovery, but you can let them know that help is available. Encourage them to speak with a treatment provider and be willing to help them take that first step.
If someone is experiencing a suspected overdose, severe withdrawal, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, or another medical emergency, seek emergency medical help immediately.
You Are Not Alone
Recognizing the risk factors and warning signs of substance use disorder can help you take action sooner rather than later. Whether you are struggling yourself or watching someone you love struggle, you do not have to figure everything out on your own.
At Stone River Recovery Center in San Antonio, Texas, we offer mental health and substance use disorder treatment in residential and outpatient settings.
If substance use is affecting your life or your family, reach out to us today and take the first step toward healing and lasting recovery.
