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New Study Finds Frustration Plays a Role In Addiction

Creator: Anna-Grace Washington
Published: 2021-08-31T12:00:00-05:00

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Written by

Anna-Grace Washington

Medical Content Writer

Medically reviewed by

Dr. William J. McCreight III, MD

Medical Director, 2019–2024

Published August 31, 2021

Reviewed and updated July 29, 2026

New Study Finds Frustration Plays a Role In Addiction

Researchers believe frustration may be an factor of substance abuse.

Study Results
How Does Frustration Play a Role In Addiction?
How Can Addiction Treatment Help?
Get Help For Addiction Today

Researchers have known that factors like cravings, impulsivity, and habit are strong contributors to addiction. However, the results of a new study from researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston show frustration is an additional factor that can also lead to addiction escalation.¹

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Study Results

According to a report from Science Daily, the study hypothesized that frustration, in addition to cravings, impulsivity, and habit, is a contributing factor to addiction. In the study, scientists trained to press a lever to receive either a banana-flavored sucrose pellet or an intravenous infusion of fentanyl, which is a synthetic opioid. If the rats didn’t get what they expected, they would push the lever repeatedly or hold it down for a longer time as their frustration increased.

Similarly, this is much like how you might get frustrated when your TV remote isn’t working. To express your frustration, you might repeatedly push the “ON” button or hold it down for a longer time.

The study showed that all rats would push a lever for an intravenous infusion of fentanyl, but about 10% of them would escalate their intake of fentanyl to about double that of the average rat. Researchers concluded that these susceptible rats are frustrated that they are not getting enough fentanyl to satisfy them, even though they’re taking as much as their bodies can handle.

In return, researchers believe this study has implications for future studies of opioid use disorder and will help scientists further understand how frustration (in addition to cravings, impulsivity, and habit) can contribute to increased substance abuse.²

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How Does Frustration Play a Role In Addiction?

Although addiction is very much a physical issue, many of the underlying causes are emotional. As demonstrated by the study referenced above, some easily frustrated people may be more susceptible to negative coping behaviors, like misusing drugs or alcohol.

The relationship between one’s mental health and addiction is like a revolving door. Poor mental health reinforces substance abuse and addiction. Similarly, substance abuse reinforces poor mental health. In addition, if you don’t have the tools to control your response to negative stimuli like frustration, you’re more likely to develop emotional problems and substance use disorders.³

Ready to talk to someone now? Briarwood Detox Center's admissions team is here 24/7, and every call is confidential. Call (866) 710-7710.

How Can Addiction Treatment Help?

If you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol, a medical detox center is often an excellent place to start your recovery journey. During detox, addiction treatment professionals will treat uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms so you can safely detox from drugs and alcohol. You’ll also meet with counselors and recovery specialists who will help you manage the psychological symptoms of withdrawal.

After detox, continuing your treatment can help you develop the skills and tools required to sustain long-lasting sobriety. By going to an addiction treatment program, you will also address the underlying causes of your addiction, which may include any difficulties you have dealing with frustration.

Get Help For Addiction Today

If you’re ready to make a change in your life, the compassionate professionals at Briarwood Detox Center are here to help you. We offer individualized drug and alcohol detox programs for people who need help to recover from addiction. Please call (866) 710-7710 or contact us online to get started.

References:

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Medical disclaimer

The content on this page is for general educational information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Withdrawal and substance use conditions can involve serious health risks, so individual care decisions should be made with a licensed provider who understands your medical history. Prescription medications, including antidepressants and antipsychotics, must be used only under the supervision of a qualified clinician, and you should never start, stop, or change any medication without medical guidance. If you experience severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, signs of medical emergency, or thoughts of self-harm, call 911 in the United States or seek immediate emergency care. For confidential mental health support at any time, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

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