Is There Such a Thing as an Addictive Personality?

The Myth of an Addictive Personality Type

Often, a picture is painted in our minds as soon we hear the word, ‘addict.’ Many preconceived notions exist of what an addict looks like and how they got that way. The truth is, an addict can be anybody, and they can be that way from either genetic predisposition, environmental factors, or as a result of prescription drug use. But what role does an addictive personality play in developing addictions?

Many people believe there are very specific and particular characteristics and personality types that become addicts. While some individuals are more prone to the disease of addiction than others, it’s essential to realize that these characteristics and traits are not present in all those who are addicts. There is no generic one-size-fits-all description for an addictive personality. Anyone and everyone is susceptible to drug addiction or alcohol addiction as it is a disease that does not discriminate based on race, socioeconomic status, or gender.

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, call WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab today at 877.969.1993 to learn how we can help. 

Actual Risk Factors for Developing Substance Use Disorder

Several risk factors are the genuine reasons why some individuals develop substance abuse disorder (SUD), drug addiction, and alcohol addiction, while others with similar drinking/drug use do not. Addictive, compulsive, and obsessive personality types are highly susceptible to the disease of addiction, and those who display addictive characteristics are easily influenced when it comes to drugs and alcohol. Many risk factors can help to explain better why some individuals develop SUD.

Some of the risk factors include:

• An underlying mental health disorder/illness
• Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Clinical Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD
• A family history of addiction
• An innate genetic disposition
• Hereditary factors
• Lack of family support and family involvement
• Childhood trauma, emotional abuse, physical abuse, being a victim of violence
• Peer pressure, lack of confidence, and insecurities
• Wanting desperately to ‘fit in’ and going to extremes to do so

There is a common misconception that those who are addicted to drugs or alcohol chose that path, and if they had enough willpower, determination, and inner strength, they would simply stop. It’s important to realize that addiction is not a choice. Instead, it is a disease of the mind that is all-encompassing and requires intense treatment, counseling, and therapy, along with consistent life-long management to overcome successfully.

Addiction and Mental Health Disorders

Close to half of people struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol also battle a co-occurring mental health disorder. This is often the driving force behind the habit. To successfully overcome addiction, the individual must first tackle the root cause (the mental health disorder) of the addiction to form a solid foundation for recovery.

Through behavioral therapy, along with one-on-one counseling and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), those who are struggling with addictive personalities and underlying mental health disorders can make a full recovery. Learning how to manage these disorders and personality types through the assistance of coping techniques and life management skills can help these individuals lead fulfilled, content, and productive lives that are not controlled by their condition.

WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab has helped tens of thousands of individuals overcome their drug and alcohol addiction, and these individuals continue to be in remission to this very day. Our treatment center staff use evidence-based treatment modalities that target underlying disorders as well as the addiction, providing a comprehensive, whole-patient approach to recovery. Get in touch with their intake team today to learn more about their levels of care and how they can help you reach sustained sobriety. We have addiction treatment centers around Florida to ensure every resident has easy access to our facilities.

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.