How can alcohol and substance abuse lead to dependency?

The correct response highlights that alcohol and substance abuse can alter brain chemistry, creating a cycle of reliance. When substances like alcohol enter the body, they interact with neurotransmitter systems in the brain. Over time, this can change how the brain functions, leading to changes in mood, behavior, and overall mental health.

As individuals continue to use these substances, their brains may begin to rely on them to function "normally," leading to increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when not using. This cycle of dependence develops because the body and brain adapt to the presence of the substance, making it difficult to stop without experiencing negative effects. This physiological and psychological reliance can perpetuate the cycle of abuse, making recovery more complex and challenging.

The other answer choices do not accurately represent how dependency develops. Improving physical health and encouraging balanced lifestyles would typically promote well-being and decrease the likelihood of dependency, while fostering social interactions, although potentially beneficial, does not directly relate to the chemical changes in the brain that can lead to addiction.