Addiction can happen to anyone from any background, social status, race, or gender. However, it is scientifically proven that many people have higher risk factors for substance abuse and addiction than others. There are certain factors that increase the risk of a person developing an addiction to drugs or alcohol. Genetics, family history, mental health, and the environment are some of the risk factors for substance abuse susceptibility.
The connection between substance abuse and addiction has an inherited component, often runs in families, and can be passed down from parent to child. Deni Carise, chief scientific officer at Recovery Centers of America says, “The science is clear: (genetics) play a very real role in the development of alcohol or drug disorders. If you have any family members who currently have or have had alcohol or drug problems, you are likely to be at higher risk (for addiction).” In addition, some genes may make it harder for someone to quit once he or she starts using a drug. They may experience more severe withdrawal symptoms if they try to quit. Family history plays an important part in determining who develops an addiction. Corner Canyon clients each do a DNA test for addiction upon admission.
Addiction can also affect your metabolism. Each person absorbs and processes compounds differently and can determine the effect a drug will have on the body. For example, the body can’t store alcohol very well because it doesn’t store any nutrients. If an individual consumes a large amount of alcohol, the substance will start to damage the intestinal tract. As a result, the body will have a lot harder time absorbing and utilizing vitamins, minerals and other nutrition provided by foods.
The effects of these substances come from the chemicals found in the substance. Each has a different chemical structure that makes them unique. For instance, heroin stimulates activity in the brain more than morphine.
An individual’s environment is also one of the prominent risk factors for substance abuse. A teen who lacks parental involvement or lives in an abusive home often will turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with their emotions. Teens are faced with peer pressure and can easily be influenced to experiment with substances to fit in.
Mental health conditions such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety are also factors that contribute to substance abuse and addiction issues. People use drugs and alcohol to cope, but certain substances actually increase depression and anxiety.
People who have chronic pain conditions can also get addicted to opioids. Individuals usually get prescribed this medication after an illness, injury, or surgery to manage a person’s pain and recovery. One problem with painkillers is that some people develop an addiction to them. A person without any of the risk factors can also become addicted at any time. The longer someone is on a certain painkiller, the harder it becomes to get off it.
The factors that contribute to substance abuse are hard to overcome. But with the proper care and mindset, anyone who suffers from substance abuse and addiction can overcome their obstacles. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, do not be afraid to get help. Addiction is complicated but is also treatable. Get help today.
At Corner Canyon, our doors are open to adult clients seeking healing and transformation to put their lives on the path of recovery. Our residential treatment center offers a warm and welcoming home environment paired with exceptional individualized clinical care utilizing the latest in scientific advancement for treating both mental health and addiction treatment. For information on our program outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, call us today: 866-399-3469
Cheryl has a 24-year history of founding and managing treatment programs for adolescents, in addition to providing therapy for them and is now excited to work with adults at Corner Canyon Recovery. Her own treatment experiences informed the development and implementation of the foundational components of Corner Canyon, and she looks forward to directing a program that meets all the expectations she had while in treatment and includes all the therapeutic practices that she has found to be effective throughout her career.
In 1998 Cheryl co-founded Second Nature Wilderness Program, which grew to be the largest private wilderness therapeutic program in the United States and included 5 separate locations. Cheryl also helped found Gateway Academy, a pre-eminent residential treatment program for adolescent boys, and looks forward to working with the Gateway Academy owners at Corner Canyon.
In 2003, Cheryl was elected by her colleagues throughout the United States to serve as a board member for the National Association for Therapeutic Schools and Programs. Cheryl works clinically with addiction, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, family systems problems, and other co-occurring issues. She loves working with clients the most out of all the different roles she has played. Cheryl completed her education at Brigham Young University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology in 1991 and her Master’s Degree in Social Work in 1993. Her clinical training included CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Assertive Communication, and providing individual, family, group therapy and marriage counseling.
Cheryl is the oldest of ten children and has two adult children, a daughter and a son. Her interests include water sports, photography, interior design, household projects, and spending time with her family and friends. She loves house boating on Lake Powell, but her favorite pastime is spending time with her 5 wonderful grandchildren.