Considering that addiction is a genetic disorder, those who have addiction in the family are at special risk for substance dependence. It is pivotal that those who are at greater risk for addiction take additional precautions, just like you would for any other disease. If you are a higher risk for addiction, please review the list below for ways to prevent from getting addicted to something that you didn’t ask for. Additionally, if you or anyone you know is currently addicted to something, call Intervention Drug Rehab so that we can make sure the individual gets enrolled in the ideal drug rehab center for their particular addiction and situation.
5. Education & awareness
You can’t know if you are at a greater risk for addiction if you don’t know how addiction works. 40 percent of is predetermined by genetics. Therefore 60 percent of substance dependence relies on personal actions and experiences to get the individual addicted to something. Just knowing this simple fact will enable you to resist addiction if you are in higher prospect. Knowing that addiction runs in the family is the first step to being aware of the possibility of falling into substance abuse. Ask around your family if anyone was ever addicted to something, or enrolled at an addiction recovery center.
4. Living a well-balanced life.
If you know that you are predisposed to addiction, take every precaution to avoid excess. Eat a variety of healthy foods, get plenty of exercise, but enjoy yourself too. Allow yourself some popcorn at the movies, or a sundae for dessert. Addictive personalities and people often have an all-or-nothing mentality. Variety is good, and moderation is even better.
3. Learn coping mechanisms.
Learning how to deal with your problems is a key part of managing your vices and emotions and making sure that they don’t go out of control. Every person has things they rely on for pleasure and relief, but it is important to think about when you are relying on those things. Drinking or binge eating when you are feeling sad is not an appropriate way to deal with your emotions. Instead pick up a book, talk to a friend, or go on a hike. Being comfortable with yourself is vital to a successful sober life.
2. Don’t self-medicate. Instead, seek treatment for mental disorders.
The worst thing you can do for your mental illness is treat it with recreational drugs. In addition to your mental health problem, you will add the behemoth of addiction. Instead if you think you have anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, or any other mental illness, it is important seek professional assistance before hurting yourself or others. Do not abuse prescribed medications. As a person with a mental health illness, you are at even greater risk for addiction. Especially if you have substance abuse in the family.
1. Abstinence
Overall, the most important thing you can do for yourself if you have a high risk of drug or alcohol addiction, is refrain from using intoxicating substances all together. But if you do use them, keep a close watch over how much you are consuming and how often. It is not recommended for anyone with a risk of genetic addiction to use drugs, but if you do know you have even more of a change of ending up in a substance abuse treatment clinic.
If you or anyone you know is addicted to drugs or alcohol, call Intervention drug rehab so we can provide you the best addiction recovery facility for what the situation calls for.
