Addiction can develop in a number of different ways, and different drugs

have different potentials for addiction. In general, people can develop

tolerance to drugs when they use them repeatedly. This requires that
they take more of that substance in order to feel the same desired effects,
which can escalate their dependence on the substance.

A dangerous cycle can result when people repeatedly use substances.

With some drugs, there are extremely uncomfortable and even life-
threatening withdrawal symptoms if the person stops taking the drug.
This means that they are compelled to keep using the drug in order to
avoid these negative symptoms.

Sometimes people don’t realize that they are addicted until the problem
has gotten out of control. An addiction can take over a person’s life,
making use of the substance the number one priority over all other
factors.

or teens, peer pressure can be a major reason why drug use or

experimentation begins. This outcome can be prevented by developing
healthy relationships and friendships. People who pressure you to use
substances should be avoided.

You may have heard the phrase that “we become like the people we are
around.” This is quite true when it comes to drugs and alcohol, and hanging
around people who are regularly using substances is definitely a risk factor
for developing bad or addictive habits yourself.

For both teens and adults, peer pressure can be a big part of life. It can be
good to come up with a plan ahead of time if you expect that someone will
pressure you into using a substance. Having a strong support network and a
collection of healthy relationships can also make it less tempting to try and
fit in with another group of people that are using drugs.