Psychological reasons for alcohol and drug consumption: from a social view to an existential one

The article presents the results of a study of psychological factors of alcohol consumption and drug addiction. The main groups of factors are described: biological, social and psychological. An attempt was made to find fundamental underlying causes of substance use that are above social and biological aspects. As a result, a conclusion was made about the connection between alcohol and drug consumption and an existential problem of human life, low human fulfillment of their life mission, inability to hear the voice of conscience and change in accordance with its instructions. The results can be used by psychologists to help patients with addiction, in counseling or developing mental health programs.