Whether you like it or not, you are influenced by the people and things around you. Sometimes, the influence is noticeable. In other cases, it’s subtle but still effective.
If you’re already addicted to something or are concerned about becoming addicted, you’ll want to take a long hard look at your environment.
Research shows that genetics play a part in addiction. However, they are not the only cause. We’re here to help you understand how your environment affects the likelihood of you becoming an addict.
You should note, if you’re dealing with an addiction, the earlier you admit you have an issue and seek treatment, the better.
You don’t need to visit an expensive rehab clinic. You can achieve great results with an online conquering dependency course.
Family Role Models
Children see their parents as perfect, even when they are clearly not. Part of this is due to the fact the child needs their parents to look after them.
However, parents are only human and doing the best job they can. Children may not notice their failings but they do register in their subconscious.
The bottom line is that parents who drink a lot or use drugs normalise this behaviour for their children. When it seems normal, it’s hardly surprising that a teenager will want to try alcohol or drugs.
Your Friends
People tend to spend a lot of time with friends and their interests tend to align. Most people appreciate the sense of belonging and even the feeling of respect that comes with having a friend group.
Unfortunately, when your friends start to dabble in drugs, alcohol, or other addictive substances, you feel compelled to join in.
This often leads to a cycle of substance abuse and addiction. Your friends will become people with similar interests, fuelling your addiction and making it hard to quit.
Social Media
Social media is full of influencers and trends. Just because they are on social media doesn’t mean you have to do them. However, that doesn’t stop people from trying them.
Just look at some of the ridiculous TikTok trends which have caught on.
Social media can make addiction seem acceptable, effectively encouraging you to try something you ordinarily wouldn’t.
Your Culture/Religion
In some cultures or religions, it is deemed acceptable for men to drink but not women. Even though this may seem strange, it happens.
Naturally, this normalises drinking in young men and can lead to addiction. This makes addiction more likely and even acceptable.
You can’t change the culture or religion you were born into, but you can be aware that this is an addiction trigger and avoid supporting it.
Regular Hangouts
Where you hang out makes a difference. For example, if you love spending your days in bars, then you’re likely to enjoy a drink or two. Over time, this will become more, and you’ll develop a habit which can easily become an addiction.
Be aware of places you frequent habitually and change your schedule regularly. It’s an effective way to avoid addiction and to meet different people while trying new things.
Summing Up
In many cases, your peers and surroundings quietly guide you into an addiction. By the time you realise it’s too late.
However, if you are aware of how an environment can increase your addiction chances, you can take steps to avoid them and lower your risk factor. That’s the ultimate in self-care.
Jean Smith is a fitness enthusiast and blogger who focuses on fitness and a healthy lifestyle. She is passionate about assisting people in living healthier lifestyles and is constantly on the lookout for new and creative methods to stay fit and healthy. Her articles are excellent resources for anyone interested in improving their health and fitness.