The majority of people who start drinking or experiment with recreational drugs do not become addicted. Why do some people become slaves to drugs and alcohol?
A good majority have genes that make them more vulnerable to addiction. But genetics alone do not provide the answer. A substance has to be available and the person has to be willing to try it. Families that include drinkers are far more likely to produce children who are willing to start drinking. Many addictions starts seemingly harmlessly with drinking on weekends with friends. A social environment that encourages drinking and drug use is far more likely to put people on a path to addiction.
The initial steps into addition will usually be pleasant A person might find that drinking or using drugs solves psychological or emotional problems. For many it eases the anxiety of socializing. Other addictions might start with treating a chronic pain with prescription medications. The first step is in associating a behavior such as drinking or taking a drug with relief from uncomfortable feeling or pain.
Many addicts have a background that includes psychological trauma or other forms of abuse. Being intoxicated provides a feeling of well-being and an escape from the psychological effects of the torment. From this point recreational use can easily slip into reliance on the drug for its emotional effects. The pleasure of achieving a high makes the negative consequences seem like a small price to play. Obtaining the drug, using it and recovering from its effects become a priority. At this stage people ignore the possibility that addiction can develop. Denial sets in and the behavior repeats over and over.
Denial is a defense mechanism. It operates to protect self-esteem and keep people even emotionally. Denial might protect a person when a harmless insult is sent, but it can also serve to empower addictive behavior.
