Is alcoholism genetic? Yes, alcoholism does run in families – but not everybody with an alcohol use disorder (alcohol addiction) has a family history of alcoholism. In this article, we will explore to what extent do genes account for alcoholism and whether or not this condition goes beyond genes.
Understanding the Genetics Underlying Alcoholism
Alcoholism is a polygenic condition – what this means is that it is not one single gene but a multitude of genes that contribute to this condition.
In a genome-wide study of more than 435,000 participants, researchers identified a total of 29 genetic variants like ADH1B, ALDH2, DRD2, CHNR5, and GCKR that are closely linked with alcohol metabolism and brain chemical response.
To elaborate on this, genetics may account for 40% to 60% of the risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD) – children of alcoholic parents are 4 times more likely to develop alcoholism when compared to children of non-alcoholic parents.
As alcoholism can be traced to a multitude of genes, alcoholism can even skip a generation. So, even if parents themselves are not alcoholics, children still have a predisposition to alcoholism if their grandparents or close relatives tend to use alcohol.
Is Alcoholism Genetic Alone?
Alcoholism is influenced by your genes to a great extent – as we told you, 40% to 60% of the time. However, genes are not everything. Even your environment matters.
For instance, a genetic risk of alcoholism combined with a family environment of turmoil, neglect, violence, trauma, financial struggles, and other instabilities (which is often the case with families of alcoholics) tends to compound the risk of alcoholism.
However, there are protective environmental and lifestyle factors that can also lower this risk. For example:
- Educating yourself about alcoholism and its dangers.
- Establishing healthy boundaries – such as saying no to alcohol, avoiding people who enable alcohol use, and so on.
- Positive relationships with friends, peers, or colleagues who do not misuse alcohol.
- Engaging in a healthy lifestyle – balanced diet, exercise, and mindfulness practices.
- Seeking supportive counseling.
- Connecting with positive role models or mentors.
Family History Is Not Your Fate
A family history of alcoholism does not mean you will turn to the same pattern as well. While children of alcoholic parents are 4 times more likely to develop alcoholism, it does not mean everyone does. Alcoholism can skip generations, even if there is a predisposition.
To somewhat relate to a quote, Albus Dumbledore once wisely said, “It is not our abilities that show what we truly are… it is our choices.” Your genetics do not decide your fate; your personal choices and the environment you create for yourself hold more power.
Tips to Break the Wheel of Alcoholism
If you are someone where alcohol misuse tends to run in your family, then it is natural to be concerned about whether you will give in to the same problematic patterns of drinking; we understand this.
So, here are some tips you can follow to prevent or delay alcohol use in yourself or a loved one:
- Educate yourself about your family history and the dangers of alcoholism.
- Develop healthy coping mechanisms such as communication, active listening, problem-solving, stress management, anger management, and more, so that you can handle life stressors without resorting to alcohol use.
- Set firm rules and boundaries for yourself where you will say no to alcohol even if it is served, avoid/cut time with those who enable alcohol use, or just remove yourself from environments where alcohol is being misused.
- Engage in alcohol-free activities.
- Seek supportive counseling when things become overwhelming for you.
- Build a strong support system for yourself (even outside of the family), so that you can rely on them for motivation and a shoulder of support.
- Connect with positive role models or mentors who can guide you in your sober lifestyle.
- Reach out to peer support groups meant for families of alcoholics, such as Families Anonymous.
Why This Knowledge Matters?
Genetics are indeed very strong – they shape your personality and behaviors to a great extent. But they do not control you.
While alcohol use disorder is indeed a risk, reducing the stigma, early prevention measures, and empathy toward those navigating these challenges are some of the steps you can take going forward.
If you need to speak with someone – then Sober Living West is always there for you, whether you are seeking guidance or care. Please do not hesitate to call us at (310) 218-5158, and we will do our best to address your concerns.