There are many reasons why people become addicted. People with anxiety, mood, personality disorders or other mental health problems are particularly vulnerable to becoming dependent on substance use or other forms of compulsive behaviors. For example, people find that drinking alcohol or taking drugs helps them initially to alleviate stress or emotional pain. However, doing so often worsens their life circumstances and mental health conditions. Ambivalence about own addiction and treatment is very common so working with a compassionate therapist can help make that shift and increase motivation.