Does Alcoholism Run in Families?
The question “Does alcoholism run in families?” is one that many people ask themselves. Especially when they have been exposed to alcoholic relatives. The short answer is yes, there are genetic factors that play a role in someone’s susceptibility to developing a problem with alcohol. Alcoholism is known as a family disease for this reason, along with the effects that living with an alcoholic relative can have on someone. Understanding the correlation is vital to preventing the long-term effects of alcoholism.
Does Alcoholism Run in Families? Genetics of Alcoholism
As previously stated, yes alcoholism can run in families. Several genetic, environmental, and psychological factors affect someone’s susceptibility to alcoholism. Several studies have shown that there is a link between genetics and developing alcohol use disorder. In fact, individuals who have a family history of alcoholism, are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. Addiction can be a part of someone’s DNA, however, it is not the sole factor that plays a role in whether someone will begin struggling with alcohol.
Environmental Factors for Generational Alcoholism
When it comes to alcohol addiction, environmental factors play a key role. For example, individuals raised in a household with alcoholic parents may develop similar, if not the same, attitudes and behaviors when it comes to drinking. Parental alcoholism, abuse, and neglect can also play a role in the child potentially developing alcohol use disorder in the future. The influence of peers is also a significant environmental factor. When someone’s friend group normalizes and/or encourages heavy drinking, it can influence someone to participate and lead to dependence. Life circumstances like job loss, financial problems, or the loss of a significant relationship are also factors that could influence someone to begin drinking heavily to cope with the situations.
Does Alcohol Addiction Run in Families?
Alcohol addiction often does run in families. This is due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors that influence someone’s perception of drinking. For example, individuals who grow up in a household where drinking is normal may develop the same mindset surrounding alcohol. This can lead to using alcohol as a coping mechanism, resulting in a strong dependence on it. Psychologically, hereditary mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can play a role in someone’s use of alcohol to cope with the conditions. Dual diagnosis is a condition where someone struggles with both addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. Alcohol often exacerbates these conditions with prolonged use, leading to worsening of alcohol use disorders. When it comes to genetics, studies have shown that they play a significant role in someone’s predisposition for developing alcoholism.
An Alcohol Gene
The “alcohol gene” refers to genetic variations that influence someone to become dependent on alcohol. These genes include the ADH1B and ALDH2 genes that are involved in the metabolism of alcohol. The variations in these genes can influence how quickly alcohol is broken down in the body.
The Effects of Living With An Alcoholic Relative
When it comes to the question “Does alcoholism run in families?” it should also be considered that living with an alcoholic relative has a profound effect on the individual. It can affect them physically, emotionally, and psychologically disrupting their overall well-being. Chronic stress and anxiety are common when someone is living with an alcoholic relative. This is often due to the unpredictable nature of the loved one’s behaviors when drinking. Children often suffer abuse and neglect, which can result in long-term trauma. This kind of living environment can foster feelings of shame and guilt as well as helplessness and can lead to developing alcohol use disorder.
Signs of Severe Alcoholism
Many people who wonder if alcoholism runs in families also wonder what the signs of severe alcoholism are. This condition is characterized by different signs and symptoms. One of the most telling is when someone experiences withdrawal symptoms when unable to drink. Other signs can include prioritizing drinking over other responsibilities, continued drinking despite the negative consequences, and an inability to control one’s drinking.
Detox
Detoxification is a necessary first step to a healthier lifestyle. Alcoholism runs in families, and to break the cycle, one must first get sober. Removing the substance from the body is the first step. Detox provides a safe environment with medical and mental health professionals who can address anything that arises. Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol can be extremely uncomfortable, and being able to stay as comfortable as possible can help make the transition smoother.
MAT
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) provides a safe way of maintaining sobriety through a combination of medications and therapies. This helps someone build a foundation while managing cravings and symptoms of withdrawal. It helps to prevent relapse and gain confidence in the ability to remain sober.
Family Therapy
Family therapy can be a crucial part of someone’s recovery. When someone is actively drinking, they create a lot of damage. It can lead to broken trust and friction within the family unit. Having a safe space to air out any problems, while finding common ground to begin working through them, can be a crucial turning point for someone seeking to better their life.
Take Action. Commit to Sobriety
Alcohol addiction leads to numerous problems. These issues range from health problems to mental health, and relationship issues. Struggling with alcohol can be a life-altering event and it often requires professional intervention. If you or a loved one are struggling, there is help available. At Flatirons Recovery our goal is to provide a safe and healing environment where those in our care can begin recovery. Call us today and begin your journey of healing and recovery.
