Addiction is a brain disease.  It causes the addict/alcoholic to use and seek the drug/alcohol compulsively and without concern for the consequences that may occur.  Not everyone who has used a drug or alcohol is an alcoholic or addict.  Only about 10% of the population has the brain chemistry that responds with addictive patterns.

Addiction does not discriminate in regards to intelligence, race, morality or in any other way.  Anyone can become an addict/alcoholic.  Studies show that about 80% of people with addiction have a family history of addiction or alcoholism.  The brain chemistry changes over time if you have addiction.  It affects a person’s self-control and ability to make good decisions.  It causes intense cravings.  These changes in the brain make it very difficult for an addict/alcoholic to stop using.

Another factor that puts one at risk for addiction is their environment.  Some of the environmental factors that make one vulnerable to addiction are peer pressure, family using drugs/alcohol and physical/sexual abuse.  In addition, the earlier drug/alcohol use starts, the more likely it is to progress into addiction.