No matter if your family has been affected by alcohol abuse, you may have noticed that alcoholism is a trait that tends to run in families. There is some debate on the exact reasons why this happens. According to research, alcoholism is a complex genetic disorder that can run in families in certain circumstances.
However, genes are only one component of the picture. The ADH1B and ALDH2 genes, in particular, have been shown to affect alcoholism. However, they do not account for all of a person's genetic vulnerability.
Reasons why alcohol abuse can run in families
Current research shows that heredity and environment play a 50/50 role in alcoholism. Some of the reasons why alcoholism tends to run in families are explained as follows:
PREDISPOSITION TO BECOME GENETIC
There is growing evidence that alcoholism is partially hereditary, which means that particular genes can increase the likelihood of alcohol consumption and abuse. No "smoking gun" gene predicts whether or not a person will develop an alcohol consumption disorder, even though we know that certain genes are associated with it.
Furthermore, it's crucial to understand that just because someone possesses the genes does not imply that their future is predetermined. Genes influence alcohol consumption disorders, but not genes. To reduce your chances of being addicted, you can take proactive measures.
BEING SURROUNDED BY ALCOHOL
An additional reason alcoholism may run in particular families is early exposure to the drug. In the case of those who suffer from alcoholism, the problem does not go away simply because they become parents. Alcohol is frequently accessible and available at all times for addicted parents.
In addition, it is conceivable for moms to consume alcoholic beverages while they are pregnant or breastfeeding their children. They increase the chance of developing drug use disorders later in life by exposing their infant to alcohol while pregnant. It is also known that fetal alcohol exposure might result in learning deficits and difficulties in the motor domain.
APPROVAL OF ALCOHOL
Another element to mention is the acceptance of alcoholic beverages within a family environment. When faced with stress or anxiety, some people turn to alcohol for relief rather than healthily dealing with their feelings. Unfortunately, this coping method is frequently handed down to the children.
If you grew up in a family where your parents drank their emotions away, you are more likely to do the same, because you were never taught how to properly process your emotions.
ADDICTION TO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES CAN BE TREATED. TODAY IS THE DAY TO END THE FAMILY CYCLE!
A few examples of why alcoholism tends to run in families include the following: Keep in mind, though, that you are in complete control of your destiny, regardless of where you were born and raised. The same can be said for your kids. Changing patterns and teaching healthier coping mechanisms are both possible.