Why Do People Become Alcoholics? Causes & Risk Factors
Genetics plays a significant role in the risk of developing alcohol addiction, though it is not the sole factor. According to heritability estimates from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism in 2020, genetics contribute to around 60% of the risk for AUD. Certain genes affect the amount of alcohol people consume and their likelihood of developing alcohol dependence. These genetic factors may influence how a person responds to alcohol, how much pleasure they derive from drinking, or how high their tolerance might be. Treatment for alcoholism addresses the common risk factors to reverse old behaviors that led to alcoholism and instill new ones that promote sobriety. This includes inpatient treatment at an accredited addiction treatment center.
- People who already suffer from high stress or psychological problems such as low self esteem and depression are at higher risk for developing alcoholism.
- This complex interplay means that the risk of developing AUD is multifaceted and requires a comprehensive approach to understanding and treatment.
- It’s a disease that can impact anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, body type, or personal beliefs.
Risk factors
The following factors contribute to the likelihood of developing AUD. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, approximately 6.7 percent of adults who had an alcohol use disorder in 2015 received treatment. To counteract the brain-slowing effects of alcohol, for instance, the brain increases the activity of excitatory neurotransmitters, which stimulate nerve activity and heighten arousal. As these changes occur, people require increasingly larger amounts of alcohol to become intoxicated.
Unsupervised Underage Drinking
People with an addiction often develop rigid routines that revolve around uninterrupted access to alcohol and other drugs; they may be irritated by schedule changes and blame their frustration on others. They may have powerful mood swings why do people become alcoholics that seem to change their personality. Relationships may deteriorate, as their social circle narrows to other drug or alcohol users. Their work may decline as well, and they may lose a spiritual or religious practice they once valued.
Family History
Other risk factors may increase your risk of developing an alcohol substance abuse disorder. For some people, the pleasure they get from drinking beer or liquor encourages their brains to keep repeating the behavior. This repetitive behavior puts a person at a higher risk https://ecosoberhouse.com/ of developing alcoholism. Genetic, psychological, social and environmental factors can impact how drinking alcohol affects your body and behavior. Theories suggest that for certain people drinking has a different and stronger impact that can lead to alcohol use disorder.
One is simply its rewarding consequences, such as having fun or escaping social anxiety. Having an impulsive personality plays into the decision to seek rewards despite negative repercussions. Another factor is stress, because alcohol can alleviate distressing emotions. Social norms, such as drinking during a happy hour or on a college campus, and positive experiences with alcohol in the past (as opposed to getting nauseous or flushed) play a role as well.
Why Should We Be Concerned About AUD and Alcohol Addiction?
- This can evolve into a strong attraction to the substance, reinforcing the behavior of using alcohol again.
- Getting started with addiction treatment may feel intimidating at first.
- Alcohol use disorder is a problematic pattern of alcohol use that leads to distress in one’s daily life, according to the DSM-5.
Early-Stage Alcoholism
