A person who is abusing drugs will likely have to deal with issues that cause the addiction. There could be a genetic predisposition involved, as with alcoholism, but heredity does not explain all cases. Personality plays a role for people who are curious or suffering from loneliness or depression. Drug abuse can also be sparked by person's environment, which may include family dysfunction, peer pressure or community surroundings where drugs are widely available.
Watchful Parents
Strong parental guidance is important as a child grows because risk and protective factors can affect children at different stages through their young lives, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. A child who exhibits aggressive behavior might be showing an early childhood risk of anti-social behavior or drug abuse. But good parental monitoring can help change inappropriate behavior into more self-control and positive behavior on the part of the child. Ineffective parenting, along with parents or siblings using drugs, can contribute to a chaotic home environment that can lead the child into drug abuse.
School Environment
Poor classroom behavior and academic failure may lead to associating with drug abusing peers in school. That is another reason why strong parental guidance is important, as well as parents keeping in close contact with teachers and school officials. Drug availability and trafficking in or near schools can be a serious problem. Many schools have developed strict policies to keep drugs away from their zones. Community leaders and community programs may also be necessary to be aware of local drug problems and help with prevention services.
Peer Pressure
Peer pressure can play a major factor during the teenage years when it comes to succumbing to or avoiding drugs. Some children abuse drugs as young as age 12 or 13. Parents' involvement in the child's life is important at this time. A strong bond should be built between the child and parent, so the child knows where to get help if peer pressure is bothersome or threatening. Discipline and clear limits should be set by the parents for stronger ties with the family and fewer connections with bad influences.
Personality
Antisocial behavior or an experimental attitude often leads people to drugs. This can begin at a young age and stem from family problems, but people of all ages abuse drugs because of their psychological makeup. Having low self-esteem also plays a role. Compulsive drug use and relapsing following recovery are behavioral difficulties that cause some people to continue to use drugs. The drug addiction might end with changes in lifestyle and therapy for people with behavior or personality problems.
Prescription Drug Abuse
People often abuse prescription drugs because of past or current substance abuse, according to the Mayo Clinic. They often work in a health care setting where drugs are easier to get. People in their teens or early 20s are vulnerable to abusing prescription drugs. Prescription drugs have become easier to obtain, so prescription drug abuse has also increased. People vulnerable to abusing these drugs may find medications easy to get because family members may have their prescription drugs in household drawers or cabinets.
