Alcohol Addiction and Genetics
All of our characteristics are set in stone by our genetic makeup. Both our appearance (including eye color) and our personalities (such as aggression) are set at birth by our DNA. Our parents are responsible for giving us this set of genes. Genetic susceptibility to developing an alcohol abuse disorder is one example of negative behaviors that may be passed down from parents to their offspring. People with a family history of alcoholism have a greater chance of having an alcohol abuse disorder than the general population. While genetic predisposition is a component, environmental and social influences are equally critical in developing an alcohol use disorder. Some people genetically predisposed to alcoholism choose to drink in moderation or abstain entirely.
Is Alcohol Addiction and Genetics Connected
Alcohol addiction is not caused by a single gene. An increased propensity for alcohol addiction may be influenced by any number of genes present in an individual’s DNA. Given their very few contributions to the whole, it’s not easy to track down these genes. However, research has shown that several gene combinations are strongly linked to alcohol use disorder. Inherited patterns of behavior may also influence one’s susceptibility to develop alcohol addiction. Individuals with a family history of psychiatric problems are at increased risk for developing conditions, including depression and schizophrenia. People with mental illness often use drugs as a coping mechanism. The complicated relationship between alcohol addiction and genetics is partly explained by the fact that mental problems may be inherited.
Chances of Developing an Alcohol Addiction Through Genes
The chance of becoming an alcoholic is heritable at 50-60%. Thus, it may be concluded that one’s genetic makeup strongly influences alcoholism. However, the role that the environment plays and how it interacts with genetics cannot be understated.
One’s genetic makeup might influence a person’s response to alcohol addiction treatment. An example of such a drug is naltrexone, prescribed to alcoholics. Evidence shows that persons with a certain gene variant react better to naltrexone. Treatment for alcohol abuse disorder may be improved with a deeper understanding of the role that genetics play in the disease.
The genes in our DNA provide the blueprints for the proteins our cells need to function. Some of these compounds affect how the body works. Researchers estimate that the human population has between 19,000 and 20,000 unique genes.
Everything about a person may be traced to their genes, from eye color to behavioral traits. Variances also influence the way a person grows in their genes. Some persons have a higher predisposition for developing alcohol abuse disorder than others due to inherited differences.
One’s genetic susceptibility to developing an alcohol abuse disorder increases with the number of alcoholics in one’s family tree.
Even if you can’t alter your genetic makeup, you can have some authority over your surrounding environment. Stopping alcohol abuse is the only certain approach to avoid developing a dependency.
Mallard Lake Offers a One-of-a-Kind Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Houston
If you have a family history of alcoholism and are showing symptoms of the disease, you should get help immediately. Risk factors for alcoholism, such as social and environmental issues, may be mitigated through counseling and assistance. A variety of outpatient and residential programs are available to assist you or a loved one who has already developed a problem. Get in touch with Mallard Lake Detox Center to discuss your therapy choices.