Drug addiction affects millions of Americans across the country, and does not discriminate when it comes to general factors such as age, race, and economic status. However, there are certain risk factors that do increase a person’s likelihood for addiction, as well as the speed at which they become addicted to substances. Knowing how to identify these risk factors can help you or your loved one get the help needed to stay clean, and prevent or overcome addiction.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, or is at high risk for addiction, understand that help is nearby. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 800-934-1582(Who Answers?) to speak with a drug abuse counselor who can discuss your addiction treatment options at nearby drug rehab centers.

Here are six factors that can increase the risk for drug addiction and substance abuse.

1. Peer Pressure

While peer pressure is more commonly known to affect teens and youth, adults are also just as affected by peer pressure from negative influences, including friends and family. If you’re surrounded by individuals who consistently pressure or encourage you to start using, you may be at high risk for addiction.

2. Environment

Spending time in places where drugs and alcohol are frequently present increases the risk for addiction, especially when substances are easily accessible. Plus, spending time with people who use drugs can indirectly influence you to adopt their same lifestyle habits and start using. If you live in an environment that encourages addiction, take steps to improve your living situation and separate yourself from drug use.

3. Family History of Addiction

You may be genetically predisposed to addiction if it runs in your family — meaning you could have inherited addictive traits from a parent, grandparent, or another relative. If you grew up around family members who struggled with addiction, the lifestyle habits you may have been exposed to can also increase your risk for addiction.

4. Mental Health Disorder

Individuals who suffer from mental health disorders are at higher risk for addiction since they frequently turn to drugs and alcohol to mask and relieve their symptoms. Suffering from addiction and a mental health disorder at the same time is known as co-occurring disorders, or dual diagnosis.

5. Depression and Anxiety

Those who suffer from depression and anxiety often cope with their feelings and emotions by turning to drug use. If you suffer from depression and/or anxiety, consider talking to your healthcare provider about available treatments for these conditions before self-medicating using drugs or alcohol.

6. Prescription Painkillers

Prescription painkillers, which belong to the opioid drug class, are highly addictive, and contributing to a nationwide opioid epidemic resulting in thousands of overdose deaths. If you’re using opioid painkillers, consider talking to your doctor about alternate treatments that carry a lower risk for addiction.

If you or someone you know is at risk for addiction, get help before it’s too late. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 800-934-1582(Who Answers?) to learn more about nearby drug rehab centers that can help you or your loved one safely and comfortably overcome drug addiction.