There are many factors that play into how a person falls into addiction. Family genetics are capable of playing a large role, while some deal with socializing with the “wrong crowd.” Some are easy to manipulate through means like advertisements or struggles with aspects of mental health.
Regardless of the reason or method, there are people who are more susceptible to addiction. For many addicts, they share common traits and patterns that make them more vulnerable to addictive behaviors. In fact, medical experts have discovered evidence of a link between addiction and mental health such as anxiety and depression.
What are the traits and are you concerned about yourself or someone you love having traits of an “addictive” personality? There are not only numerous traits to watch out for, but methods to unearth them.
What are the Potential Traits?
When it comes to identifying addicts, there are a number of traits and behaviors they may share. Some might believe personality traits such as neuroticism and low self-esteem could affect the likelihood of becoming addicted. However, the fact of the matter is there is no consistency with personality traits and addiction.
While you may see a noticeable amount of addicts have self-esteem issues, this does not apply to all of them. At the same time, not all people with low self-esteem have an addiction of some kind. Ultimately, there are no end-all traits that define an “addictive” personality. But nevertheless, connections have been discovered between the human mind and addictive tendencies.
The Link with Mental Health
Personality traits alone may not be connected to having an addictive personality, but mental health is heavily involved. Pre-existing medical conditions such as anxiety, bipolar, depression, PTSD, and schizophrenia all can play a role with a potential addiction. In fact, those with anxiety or mood disorders are twice as likely to have a substance abuse disorder.
This is because many drugs can help mitigate these conditions such as alcohol for anxiety and cigarettes for schizophrenia. For many, addictive drugs are an attempt to self-medicate and fix problems out of their hands.
Once again, this does not mean all schizophrenics smoke or that all people with anxiety disorders abuse alcohol. But it does mean that these individuals are more likely to develop these behaviors than others.
Learning About Addictive Personalities
Defining an addictive personality is not straightforward, but there are connections to stronger addiction potential. As previously noted, pre-existing medical conditions can play a strong role in addiction.
Though there are many mental health conditions that influence addictions, there are other factors. If you are aware of family conditions or your own mental health conditions, research into these possible connections. Not only are there hereditary effects with addiction, but genetics can also affect your likelihood.
Finding the answers and causes of addictions is almost never straightforward, but researching it can find a multitude of connections. With the right preparation and investigation, you can handle and avoid the dangers that leave connect to dangerous addictions.
If you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, contact our Treatment & Rehab alternative center in Tennessee. You might be interested in Discovery Place’s own treatment center alternatives, such as our 30 Day Alternative Residential Addiction Recovery Program or our Long Term Alternative Recovery Program in Burns, Tennessee. Call us for a free consultation at 1-800-725-0922.
