What Causes Addiction?

Addiction is a complex and progressive disease that affects the user, their family, and their community. Despite the negative consequences associated with chronic drug abuse, those addicted continue to use drugs and alcohol. If you have a loved one struggling with addiction, you may feel frustration, anger, and hopelessness as you watch them slide further away from you and your family. Without professional intervention, your loved one may die from their addiction.

If you are looking to get your loved ones the help they need, this article will explore what causes addiction and the signs of addiction. Most importantly, you will learn what Los Angeles treatment options are available and where you can find the best treatment programs for your loved one.

What are the Signs of Addiction?

The signs of addiction vary and can depend on the substance or substance someone is abusing. Also, the signs of addiction can be difficult to spot at first. Addicts will go to great lengths to hide their substance abuse from friends and family. However, there are common addiction signs that addicts show. The common physical signs of addiction are the following:

Drastic changes in physical appearance
Small pupils (also known as pinned pupils)
Labored breathing
Prolonged drowsiness
Loss or increase in appetite
Sudden and unexplained weight loss or weight gain
Intense flu-like symptoms (nausea, vomiting, sweating, shaky hands, feet or head, large pupils)
Wearing long-sleeves or hiding arms (common in those who abuse drugs such as heroin)
There are also behavioral signs that are common amongst all addicts. These can include:
Change in attitude
Isolate from family and friends
Abrupt change in peer groups
Lack of interest in hobbies they once enjoyed
Drops in grades or performance at work
Increased isolation and defensiveness when confronted about their substance use
Selling personal items or stealing to fund their habit

So the million-dollar question is what causes addiction? Unfortunately, isn’t one overarching cause of addiction, and there isn’t an all-encompassing “addiction gene” that causes people to develop substance abuse issues. The causes of addiction can be attributed to a number of factors. One of the most common causes of addiction is a family history of substance abuse and having family members active in using drugs and alcohol. Another example of addiction causes is unresolved physical, emotional, or sexual trauma.

Peer pressure is also one of the most common addiction causes, especially during the teen years. Teens need to feel a sense of belonging, and if peers are using substances and offering them to others, it can be hard to refuse that offer. Mental illness is another factor that may lead to substance abuse. People with mental disorders such as depression and anxiety may use drugs to cope with their feelings.

What are the Options for Addiction Treatment?

While addiction is a complex and devastating condition, it is highly treatable, and people who recover go on to lead healthy and happy lives. Fortunately, many treatment options are available to those in need. The most common treatment option is residential (or inpatient) treatment, where people reside in the treatment facility itself and away from the triggers of their home environment.

People in residential treatment will receive an individualized treatment plan featuring evidence-based programs such as medical detox, individual, group, and family therapy, life and coping skills training, holistic therapies, and 12-step group support.

For those unable to spend considerable time away from family, school, or work, many treatment facilities offer outpatient programs such as intensive outpatient (IOP) and partial hospitalization programs (PHP). These programs offer the same effective programs and services found in residential, but people are allowed to live at home and attend programming during day or nighttime hours.

Sober living is another treatment option for people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol. Sober living homes are commonly used by those who have completed treatment and are transitioning back to normal lives. Those who reside in these homes are in various stages of recovery and are working on their individual recovery programs. Residents are responsible for paying monthly dues and performing household chores and will participate in 12-step groups and other programming as outlined in their recovery program. Sober living homes may be tied to a particular treatment facility or are separate facilities where people from various treatment programs can reside.

How Can Los Angeles Sober Living Help With Addiction?

Sober living is an essential component of recovery. Sober living homes allow residents to get continued care while working, going to school, and upholding family obligations. While in sober living, people receive the support of recovering peers and treatment staff and grow more confident in their newfound sobriety. The Nook Sober Living is a premier Los Angeles sober living for men that offers around-the-clock support and evidence-based programs that keep those new in recovery motivated and on the path toward lasting sobriety.
In addition to sober living, we have partnered with Thrive Treatment to provide outpatient and clinical treatment services. If you need quality sober living that focuses on giving you the tools you need to succeed, call The Nook Sober Living toll-free today.