Causes of Alcoholism: The Root Factors Elevations Health: Addiction Recovery Programs & Services

Speaking with a professional about your potential susceptibility may be worthwhile, however. If you or someone you know is at greater risk of AUD, being familiar with the signs can help you proactively address the situation. At the very least, this awareness can serve as incentive to practice moderation when drinking. While the cause of addiction can’t be narrowed down to a single factor, there are a number of common influences that impact the development of alcohol problems.

• While individuals from every culture, religion, and family background can be diagnosed with AUD, these factors do influence opinions about, and reactions to, alcohol.
• Stress and trauma are significant environmental factors that can contribute to the development and maintenance of alcoholism.
• A person who experiences feelings of low self-esteem or self-worth may start drinking alcohol more frequently to numb intrusive thoughts.

Research and Statistics: Who Has Alcohol Use Disorder?

According to Mayo Clinic, drinking increases the likelihood of depression, mood swings, violence and suicide among people with bipolar disorder. But while some diseases, such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia, can be traced to a single genetic mutation, there’s no single gene for alcoholism. Rather, a number of genetic variations combine with environmental factors to increase a person’s risk for becoming addicted. While approximately 50 percent of a person’s risk for alcoholism appears to be tied to one’s genetic makeup, other factors such as emotions, physical health and upbringing can all play a role. A trauma-informed counselor can help an individual process their underlying trauma so that they can live a more fulfilling and emotionally healthy life.

• Certain social and cultural contexts, including peer pressure, drinking norms, and availability of alcohol, can predispose you to developing problematic drinking patterns.
• It is important to recognize that social factors, including cultural norms and the accessibility of alcohol, are significant contributors to the development of alcoholism.
• See your doctor if you begin to engage in behaviors that are signs of alcohol use disorder or if you think that you may have a problem with alcohol.

How to manage social situations without using substances

Above, we mentioned how science tells us that alcoholism is indeed a medical condition. However, a person who has not yet developed a biological why is alcoholism considered a chronic disease dependence on alcohol may still choose to drink maladaptively despite being aware of warning signs or personal risk factors. However, about 18 million adult Americans have an alcohol use disorder (AUD).

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In extreme situations, excess alcohol intake can lead to permanent brain damage, coma or death. A single drink a day for adult women and up to two drinks a day for adult men is considered an acceptable amount. Consuming more than four (for women) or five (for men) drinks over a two hour period is considered binge drinking, drug addiction treatment which is extremely dangerous. It’s when drinking like this becomes a source of distress and harm to self and others that there’s cause for real alarm. Your brain chemistry significantly influences your relationship with alcohol.

Once you’re well enough to leave, you’ll need to continue to receive treatment on an outpatient basis. Because denial is common, you may feel like you don’t have a problem with drinking. You might not recognize how much you drink or how many problems in your life are related to alcohol use. Listen to relatives, friends or co-workers when they ask you to examine your drinking habits or to seek help.

Dual addictions and dependencies

It’s important for individuals seeking help and support for alcoholism to understand that recovery is a unique and personal journey. It may involve a combination of treatment options and support systems tailored to the individual’s needs. By reaching out for help, individuals can take the first step towards a healthier and alcohol-free life. In many cases, even moderate drinking (defined below) appears to increase risk. Despite this, less than half of the US public is aware of any alcohol-cancer connection.