Why Is Alcoholism Hereditary?

Alcoholism is the result of many maladaptive factors: biological functions, mental processes, perceived social norms and genetics. Several genes have been linked with alcoholic families, but not every child who inherits these defects develops alcoholism. On the other hand, a child whose family history is free from alcoholism can turn out to be an addict.

The balance between genetics and environment is both complex and delicate. The right combination can raise or lower one's inclination for alcohol abuse. Fortunately, fate is in your hands. Spending time at The Canyon to learn healthy ways of managing feelings, coping with stress, and building supportive relationships can open new doors to a brighter, happier future.

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What the Research Says About Alcoholism and Heredity

Endorphins are the body's natural pain managers. Low endorphin levels indicate a greater risk for developing alcoholism, according to recent research, and are most certainly hereditary. When outside sources of pain control (such as alcohol) are introduced, the brain cuts back on its production of endorphins, creating a dependence on the new substance for continued regularity.

Identical twins (those who have the same DNA) have been found to share the same drinking habits and results of intoxication, sometimes right down to the preferred brand of alcohol.

Additionally, rats have been successfully bred in the laboratory to produce offspring who show a strong preference, dislike, or difference in tolerance for alcohol.

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The Risks of Alcoholism for Children of Alcoholics

There are a number of factors that may increase the chances of a child of an alcoholic developing issues with alcoholism later in life. These include:

• Constant tension/ anxiety
• Depression/ intense mood swings
• Thrill seeking
• Hostility
• Destructive coping habits
• Failing at school
• Dysfunctional relationships
• Agonizing mental illnesses
• Recurring substance abuse or dependency

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Other Influences on the Development of Alcoholism

Your childhood environment plays an important role in the development of alcoholism. Parents who are addicted are not able to fulfill the needs of their children because they are constantly focusing on meeting their own needs for drugs or alcohol. Neglect, insecurities, unpredictable consequences, abuse, guilt, and shame add up quickly. If both parents are addicts, a child learns that this is the way adults are supposed to behave, and alcohol is the way to solve one's problems.

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Treatment for Alcoholism at The Canyon

If you have an addict in your family, the old saying "the best way to stop drinking is never to start" certainly holds true. If you're having trouble with drugs or alcohol, the best thing to do is get help immediately. Putting it off for another day, or another paycheck, or another bottle only makes it worse for yourself.

Biology may pre-determine a person's risk for developing alcoholism, but healthy choices and positive role models offer hope for making sound decisions when it comes to drinking.

The Canyon has a myriad of treatment options available for you to choose from. Individual, group, and family counseling sessions help create a solid platform from which to build on techniques and methods for dealing with your problems proactively rather than reactively.

Call us at The Canyon at today to find out how.

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