Whether or not your family has been impacted by alcohol use, you may have noticed that alcohol problems tend to run in families. This is not your imagination. Research shows that alcoholism is a complex genetic disease that runs in some families. However, the reasons why this happens are not exactly clear.
We do know that some genes have an effect on alcoholism, specifically ADH1B and ALDH2. But these genes do not account for all of a person’s genetic risk. But there’s more to the picture than genes alone.
Reasons Why Alcohol Abuse May Run in Families
Studies show that alcoholism is approximately 50 percent genetics and 50 percent environment. Here are some reasons why alcohol problems tend to run in families.
Genetic predisposition
There is a growing body of evidence that shows that alcoholism is partially genetic in nature, meaning that certain genes can raise the risk for alcohol use and misuse. Even though we know that certain genes relate to alcoholism, there is no “smoking gun” that makes a person more or less likely to develop an alcohol use disorder.
Additionally, it’s important to know that just because a person does have the genes does not mean their future is written in stone. Genes play a role in alcohol use disorders, but they are not destiny. There are deliberate actions you can take to lower your risk for addiction.
Alcohol exposure
Another reason why alcoholism may run in certain families is because of exposure. For those who struggle with alcohol addiction, their problem doesn’t just stop because they become parents. As a result, parents with addiction often have alcohol accessible and available at all times.
Additionally, it’s also possible for mothers to drink while they are pregnant or breastfeeding. This means that they expose their infant to alcohol, raising the risk for substance use problems later on. We also know that exposure to alcohol in utero can cause learning disabilities and problems with motor functioning.
Alcohol acceptance
Something else to point out is the acceptance of alcohol within a family. Some people use alcohol to cope with stress and anxiety rather than dealing with their feelings in a healthy way. Unfortunately, this coping mechanism is often passed down to the children as well.
If you grew up in a home where your parents drank their feelings away, you’re more likely to do the same. This is because you were never shown how to process your emotions in a healthy manner.
Alcoholism is Treatable. Break the Family Cycle Today.
These are just a few of the reasons why alcoholism has the tendency to run in families. But, always remember that you have control over your future, regardless of the home you grew up in. And same with your own children. Cycles can be broken, and healthier ways to cope can be taught.
If you or a loved one needs help with an alcohol use disorder, contact Awakenings Treatment Center in Agoura Hills, California today.