Addiction is a severe mental illness that takes thousands of lives each year in America. While addiction starts out with a choice to pick up a drink or a drug, many people have no idea what will happen years later. Therefore, a lot of research has gone into the field of addiction. We now have answers to how abuse leads to addiction. Moreover, we now know there are those at a much higher risk due to having an addictive personality. If you find yourself wondering, “Do I have an addictive personality?”, it’s essential to understand the risks and signs that come with it. One way to learn about having an addictive personality is through substance abuse treatment programs.

What is an Addictive Personality?

Before you ask do I have an addictive personality, you should first have an understanding of what that means. If you’re struggling with an addiction to alcohol or drugs, you may want to know why you have issues, and others don’t. However, this can be extremely confusing and frustrating. Depending on a wide range of factors, you might have been at risk due to your addictive personality. For example, some of the leading risk factors for developing a substance abuse disorder include:

• Genetic predisposition
• Mental illness
• Unstable living environment growing up
• Traumatic experiences
• Poverty

We now know there is a genetic component that gives people a 50 percent higher chance of developing an addiction. Furthermore, when you combine this with the possibility of mental illness, chances of addiction are incredibly high. When mental illness is at play, seeking out dual diagnosis treatment centers is crucial in recovery.

The most significant risk factor for developing an addiction is what your environment was like growing up. Having neglectful or abusive caregivers puts you at an extremely high risk for addiction.

Do I Have an Addictive Personality and How Can I Help Myself?

Therapy in addiction treatment programs is the first step towards finding a solution to your issues with drugs or alcohol. In therapy, the goal is to first get down to the causes and conditions of why you turn to drugs or alcohol. However, for most people, turning to drugs or alcohol is the only way they know how to cope with the stresses of life. Working with a therapist in treatment can help you heal from your past and create a better future.

In fact, another major part of the treatment program is peer support. While you’re in your active addiction, you may feel as though nobody understands what you’re going through. However, in a group environment, you’ll see others who understand where you’ve been and how you feel. This type of support helps you begin building connections.

How to Get Help

Promises Behavioral Health is here to help you better understand your addictive personality and learn how to live a much better life. Moreover, our staff cares about your recovery and wants to see you begin living the life you deserve. Our facilities across the country allow us to help anyone who needs it. Our locations include the following:

• 5 Palms in Ormond Beach FL
• Clarity Way in Hanover PA
• Lucida Treatment Center in Lantana FL
• Promises in Austin TX
• Promises in Scottsdale AZ
• The Right Step in Hill Country TX
• Washburn House in Worcester MA
• The Right Step in Dallas TX
• The Right Step in Houston TX
• The Ranch in Wrightsville PA
• The Ranch in Nunnelly TN

Do I have an addictive personality? Is it possible to turn my life around? Find your answers by calling Promises Behavioral Health today at 844.875.5609.