When a drug is needed so that a person can perform normal functions, this is known as drug dependence. Withdrawal symptoms result if the drug is stopped abruptly. Compulsive use of a drug, despite the consequences which can be dangerous or negative to the body is known as drug addiction.
There can be a physical dependence on a drug and yet a person may not be addicted to it. For example, someone taking blood pressure medication may develop a physical dependence on the drug yet not be addicted to it. Addiction would occur when there may be no physical dependence. Other signs of addiction include the need to take a higher dose of the drug in order to achieve the same effects.
The precise causes of drug abuse and addiction remain unknown. Some factors that are considered when a person becomes addicted to drugs include their genes, the effects of the drug on that person, peer pressure, anxiety, emotional distress, anxiety, stress and depression. Although peer pressure can play a major role in leading to drug abuse, typically those who become addicted suffer from some kind of mental health problem. Children who grow up in an environment where there is parental use of drugs may be exposed to a higher risk for developing a drug addiction later in life.
There are certain tendencies in people that become dependent on drugs and are likely to abuse them. These include people who have easy access to drugs, have emotional problems which may involve low self-esteem or problems with relationships, live a style of life that that is stressful, economically, socially or emotionally, live in an environment where the social use of drugs is highly accepted, or have such mental health problems as schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, depression and bipolar disorder. The treatment of these factors once recognized can help to lead to the prevention of drug abuse and addiction.