Drug abuse can be caused by many different things. Contrary to popular belief, drug abuse doesn’t always have to be about a weakness of character or to have fun. An abusive childhood can leave emotional baggage that the person feels is only escapable by drug abuse, or perhaps sexual abuse occurred, which would have much the same result.

When people are young, many of them who turn to drug abuse may at first do so out of peer pressure, but there are other factors. Some people have chronic illnesses that cause physical pain, so they turn to drugs like opiates or marijuana, or prescription painkillers to relieve their pain. Some people may also feel bored with their life and feel that drug abuse may alter their perspective, or the want to experiement. Sometimes a physical imbalance of chemicals in the brain can lead to emotional disorders.The purpose of cognitive-behavioral therapy is to teach the recovering addict ways to deal with underlying issues without needing drug abuse once they are discharged. The treatment centers understand that the need to indulge in drug abuse often is cause by the circumstances listed above, such as a tough childhood, and therefore offers cognitive-behavioral therapy to help the addict get past the underlying issues.

The focus in treating drug abuse is on making the change in outlook and behavior habitual rather than medical or psychological, which is needed for a long-term success. Some addicts believe that the physical detox is the only step to recovery. This is only getting rid of the toxins. Drug abuse is a difficult habit to withdraw from, but it’s necessary to break free from drug abuse in order to live a happer and more fulfilling life.