There are many reasons that lead to someone becoming addicted to alcohol or other drugs. Addiction can happen to anyone, regardless of their age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Like the development of any mental illness or substance use disorder, one important element to consider is the role that a person’s environment plays in their life.
Many understand addiction to be a genetic disease, but that is just one factor that can contribute to the development of addiction. It is essential to understand that all factors overlap and how understanding environmental factors can pave the path to how addictive behaviors are identified, addressed, and treated.
Environment involves any elements in the external world that interact with a given individual. The term environment does not solely define the physical environment of a person but also involves social and familial dynamics and interactions, intake of media and societal standards, culture, religion, and other learned behaviors.
There are many reasons that lead to initial substance use. The most common reasons that a person may begin using substances, or continue to use substances, include:
While many people start using drugs because they need assistance dealing with mental or physical pain, others use them to numb their psychological distress. There are endless pressures and demands that each of us experience throughout our lifetimes. If we are not equipped with the proper tools and resources to know how to deal with them, we are essentially set up for failure.
Discrimination is the unjust treatment of others because of differences in identity. Oppression is when a person, or group of people, use their power to treat others in a way that is cruel. Oppression is also understood to be prolonged discrimination, as oppression typically follows discrimination.
Society has come a long way in addressing the history of unjust treatment of others, although there is still critical work to be done. Discrimination and oppression are ongoing and evident in our nation. Some common examples of discrimination that you may have experienced before include:
To fully understand the different mechanisms of discrimination and oppression, it may help to understand the different forms of discrimination that typically occur. Discrimination is unjust treatment due to any of the following:
Repeated instances of discrimination and oppression inevitably produce negative effects on one’s overall well-being, especially in regard to their mental health. Regardless of the type of offense or reason for discrimination, oppression causes deep suffering. The effects of oppression include:
When oppression begins at a young age, a person may grow up needing excessive validation and reassurance in everything that they do. They inarguably lack self-worth, because their levels of self-esteem have been dictated by others throughout their lives. The feelings of worthlessness and isolation that occur from experiences of oppression are crippling and can cause people to lose their sense of self.
Addressing the connection between oppression and addiction requires a multifaceted approach, especially in supporting minority populations who often face the brunt of discrimination. Providing robust resources and outreach is crucial to help these communities work through experiences of oppression.
While many organizations and job opportunities strive to maintain non-discriminatory practices, the reality of widespread oppression and discrimination outside these spaces persists. It’s vital to advocate and speak up for those who need a voice, supporting them in the fight against injustice.
Empowering yourself and others in their identity and standing firm against unjust treatment can make a significant difference. For those who struggle to overcome experiences of discrimination, being a support system and offering guidance is key.
Discrimination and oppression are persistent issues that can deeply affect mental health, leading to reduced self-worth, self-esteem, and a weakened sense of identity. These negative experiences can often escalate into isolation and mental distress, which are significant risk factors for substance use and addiction.
By providing a supportive space for conversation and recognizing the risk factors of addiction, you can contribute to breaking the link between oppression and addiction. Our directory includes mental health treatment facilities across Southern California, offering safe and supportive environments for clients. These centers provide a range of treatment services tailored to individual needs, equipping clients with the tools necessary for long-term recovery from mental distress.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of oppression and addiction, explore our directory to find appropriate treatment options. Reach out to discover how these resources can support you or your loved one on the journey to recovery and well-being.
