How fast your body breaks down what is alcoholism (or metabolizes) alcohol plays a big part in whether you might struggle with addiction. The previous COGA studies have provided critical information to better understand the genetic and biological underpinnings of AUD. However, there is a need for a framework to unify the findings and provide the data to the community for additional analysis and discovery. The initiative will facilitate identification of therapeutic targets and development of prevention strategies for AUD, supported by data generation, curation and bioinformatic analyses.
When and How to Seek Professional Support
By combining early intervention, education, therapy, and a nurturing home environment, families can break the intergenerational cycle of alcoholism and foster long-term recovery/well-being and resilience. Habit formation is one of the primary reasons why it can be very challenging to stop drinking. You can take the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to learn whether you display signs of unhealthy alcohol use. Rather than looking for the same gene-related factors as the GARS, the AUDIT focuses on behavioral signs of alcohol misuse and can raise awareness of potential alcohol outcomes. The ability to choose between video, audio, and online chat sessions on platforms like BetterHelp can also contribute to increased comfort levels throughout the therapeutic process.
- Studies have shown that individuals with a family history of alcoholism have a higher risk of developing the disorder compared to those without a familial background.
- The journal Biological Research on Addiction reports that genetics do play a role in the heritability of alcoholism; however, no single gene is involved.
- Variations in this gene can impact the efficiency of dopamine metabolism, leading to imbalances in dopamine levels in the brain.
- If you look at family histories, you’ll often see patterns of alcohol misuse running through generations.
- While inherited genes can increase the risk, environmental factors also play a crucial role in the development of this disorder.
- If you have a family history of Alcohol Use Disorder, it’s essential to be proactive about your health.
Paying for Treatment
Conversely, environments that provide greater opportunity for alcohol use can trigger genetic vulnerability. For example, peer groups with high rates of deviant behavior or easy access to alcohol increase the likelihood that an inherited risk is alcoholism a genetic disease will translate into the disorder. The genetic makeup can also affect the stress response system, including the regulation of hormones like cortisol.
Limitations of Genetic Studies in Understanding Alcohol Addiction
- These findings underscore the significant role that family history plays in the likelihood of developing AUD.
- NIAAA’s “Core Resource,” although intended for health care professionals, has helpful information for the public as well.
- Therapy, family counseling, and community programs create stability that genetics alone cannot undo.
If you feel like you are no longer in control of your drinking habits, then it is time to seek counseling. Professional help from licensed counselors can do a lot of preventative measures to ensure that the problem is targeted at its root. Contact Moving Mountains Recovery to learn more about the causes of addiction or to explore our treatment programs. Contact the Moving Mountains Recovery specialists to learn about our holistic recovery programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
