Common Reasons Why People Abuse Substances

It is the abuse of substances that eventually can lead to addiction. It’s not necessarily that a person has a drink every once in awhile. It’s more that a person has been drinking or using drugs excessively and that there is a certain kind of pleasure that is derived from substance use. Of course, most everyone experiences pleasure from alcohol. However, if that pleasure is used as an escape from one’s problems or to feel better to the point of developing a dependence upon a substance, then an addiction might eventually occur.

Yet, in addition to needing an escape or needing to change your mood, there are many reasons why a person might turn to substances. Common reasons include:
•    Stress from work
•    Grief from loss of a loved one
•    Boredom
•    Peer pressure
•    Conditioning from one’s upbringing where use of substances was considered normal
•    Rebelliousness
•    To avoid life’s problems
•    To boost one’s self confidence
•    Financial problems
•    To cope with symptoms of a mental illness
•    Relationship issues

These aren’t the only reasons why a person might turn to drinking or use of drugs. There may be many other reasons. And people can turn to all sorts of substances. These can include:
•    Alcohol
•    Prescription drugs – like Ritalin and Klonopin
•    Inhalants
•    Stimulants – such as cocaine and crystal meth
•    Depressants
•    Hallucinogens

It’s important to note too that just because a person is feeling stressed or any of the above listed experiences, he or she may not necessarily turn to substances. There are other factors that can play a role in why someone might drink or use drugs. For instance, one’s environment can have an impact on whether a person decides to use drugs to feel better. If there are other family members, coworkers, and peers for instance who are using drugs and alcohol on a regular basis, then choosing to do so might feel easy. However, if you were raised in a home without drugs and alcohol or if you spend time with those who rarely use drugs or drink then it may feel strange or awkward to use drugs or alcohol as a means to cope.  Instead, a person might come up with another means to cope – such as overworking to avoid feelings of grief or anger.

Another factor in whether a person uses substances is the severity of his or her situation. Some men and women never think about drinking or using drugs. Yet, when faced with severe financial issues or when battling a terminal illness or even when losing a loved one, then substances might become an option. At the same time, if one’s situation is severe enough, he or she might skip substances altogether and perhaps begin to think about suicide instead.

The point is that there are many factors that can play a role in whether a person chooses to use substances. However, the above list provides common scenarios that trigger a person towards drugs and alcohol.

If you found yourself in one of the above situations and you’re struggling with substance use, contact a mental health provider for support.