Addiction has many faces. Addiction can touch the lives of the young, old, rich, poor, all nationalities, and all socioeconomic statuses. Addiction does not have a preference for who is impacted.

There are certain factors that can increase the risks of developing an addiction. Addiction experts theorize that genetics, poverty, social factors, and trauma can increase the risk of developing an addiction. The only certain way to avoid substance dependency is to never use alcohol or drugs.

Social factors play an important role in addiction. Social factors include socioeconomic status, peer pressure, and family and social influences. If substance use was popular amongst your friends, then you have a higher risk of engaging in risky substance use. If you grew up in poverty, your risks of being exposed to substance use are significantly higher than peers who did not experience such things.

Genetics also plays a role in addiction. If you had a family member who was an alcoholic or addict, your chance of developing an addiction is significantly higher. The only way to avoid these risks is to never drink or use. If your father, mother, grandparents, or other close family member had an addiction, your tolerance to drugs and alcohol will be higher than a peer who was not exposed to substance use.

Trauma also plays a big role in substance use. If you are female and experienced trauma in the form of sexual or physical abuse, your risks of developing an addiction is about two times higher than your male counterparts. Males who are combat veterans have significantly higher risks of addiction, as well.

The face of addiction can be anyone. If you grew up poor, in an abusive household, or even if drug and alcohol use was just common in your household, your risks of developing an addiction are significantly higher. The only way to completely avoid these risks is to never use drugs and alcohol.

If you have experienced any of these risk factors and are concerned about your substance use, the best way to confront the problem is to reach out to an addiction expert. At The Kimberly Center, we understand about social, genetic, trauma, and exposure risk factors. We also know that each person is a unique individual. Call us now at 855-4-KCENTER. We are committed to putting you first. The Kimberly Center wants to educate you on addiction. At the Kimberly Center, you are in safe hands.