Stages of Substance Abuse Addiction is a habit of activity, in which there is constant use of mood-altering substances without regard for unfortunate consequences for the mind, body and soul. There is no demographic that drug and alcohol addiction does not affect; addiction can happen to anyone at any time. People become addicted to drugs and alcohol for many reasons. Some of these reasons are uncontrollable because you are born with them; others are caused by environmental factors and poor self-control. Factors that can lead a person into the bondage of abuse and addiction range from biological elements, influences from the people one surrounds one with, over-the-counter drugs to which people become dependent, and the state of mind of the victim of the abuse. abuse. abuse. Addiction has affected people of all ages since before large-scale research was even conducted. Drugs are chemicals that make your mind, mood, and body feel and act out of the ordinary. There are different types of drugs, some legal and some illegal. Some medications, such as those for colds and pain, can help patients recover. Many of these medications can be purchased at the corner pharmacy and are safe when used appropriately. Other, more powerful drugs are prescribed by a doctor. These include antibiotics, antipsychotic drugs and antidepressants. Some of the most dangerous and addictive drugs are illegal. The most commonly abused drugs include heroin, crack, cocaine, LSD, ecstasy and alcohol. Although it is legal for adults over the age of twenty-one, alcohol is the most abused drug in the world (Bancroft 16). There are five main categories of drugs and alcohol, broken down by how they affect users' bodies... middle of paper... which can make them more susceptible to becoming addicted. Another factor that could cause addiction is peer pressure. People want to fit in and find common ground with their friends. Then, they may experiment with drugs and/or alcohol or use them recreationally, which can lead to addiction. Another way people become addicted is to become so dependent on prescription drugs for numb pain that they cannot function without them. And finally, addiction can be caused by an individual's state of mind. Mentally unstable people often turn to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism. Once they get out of their bad mood and under the influence, they start using more of it to get out of their own head. It is dangerous to be involved in drugs and alcohol and, if not used correctly and/or responsibly, can lead to overuse and addiction.