Alcohol and drug abuse can happen to anyone, male and female, young and old, rich and poor - no matter the culture. However, men are more prone to addiction than women, teen drug abuse is very common, and addiction and abuse do varies among different ethnic groups. In 1999 around 3.6 million people over the age of 12 were addicted to either alcohol, drugs, or both.
Are you at risk for addiction? What makes an addictive personality? Not everyone believes in the idea of an addictive personality, those who do believe there is something in your brain that predisposes you to addictions. The type of drug or alcohol being used also be a factor in a higher risk of addiction. For example, cocaine and heroin are more addictive than marijuana.
The following questions may help you understand signs of an addictive personality.
- Have you ever been addicted to a behavior or substance before?
- Do you lean toward dependent relationships?
- Do you dislike change?
- Are people in your family easily addicted to something?
- Do exhibit self-destructive behaviors?
- Do you always follow your impulses, even when they are not the best choice?
- Do you follow the crowd, even when it is not the best choice?
- Are you have signs of depression or any other psychological disorder?
- Do you use substances to help you forget your problems?
These questions are not meant to diagnose addiction. Hopefully they can lead you to a better understanding about addictions and how you can avoid future problems with addiction. Some addictions can be helped through counseling while others require drug rehab treatment but the important thing is that if you or someone you love is already suffering from addiction seek help now.
