Causes of Alcoholism: Why Am I An Alcoholic?

why do people become alcoholics

Although having a genetic predisposition to alcoholism https://ecosoberhouse.com/ does not guarantee that someone will develop an addiction, it may contribute to their susceptibility. Some chronic alcoholics develop a condition called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which results from a thiamine (vitamin B-1) deficiency. The condition, which is sometimes called wet brain, is characterized by eye movement disorders, loss of muscle coordination, confusion and memory issues.

  • Research suggests that there are significant genetic factors and hereditary elements of alcohol addiction.
  • Social stressors such as financial strain, the absence of meaningful social relationships, and traumatic experiences can lead to substance use as a coping mechanism.
  • Alcohol Use Disorder is a pattern of disordered drinking that leads to significant distress.
  • Just like some people have a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease or cancer, others have a greater risk of developing an alcohol use disorder.

Result of Alcoholism: Social and Personal Impact

why do people become alcoholics

Loved ones are an integral part of the addiction recovery process, but they need to balance their own needs in addition to providing support. To do that, they can set boundaries around their emotional, physical, and financial relationship, for example that the house will remain an alcohol-free zone. They can research alcoholism to understand the underpinnings of the disorder, the signs of an overdose, and other important information. They can discuss co-occurring mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression.

What Causes Alcoholism?

why do people become alcoholics

People who already suffer from high stress or psychological problems such as low self esteem and depression are at higher risk for developing alcoholism. Although they use alcohol in an unhealthy way, people who suffer from alcohol abuse do not necessarily develop a physical dependence upon alcohol. It leads to turmoil in the home, resentful relationships, and even emotional or physical health problems. Unfortunately, people who become alcoholics often require professional treatment in order to recover.

Health Conditions

Loved ones can provide immeasurable support, but they almost take care of themselves throughout an often difficult journey. We internalize rules, expectations, and limitations, learning to suppress parts of ourselves to gain approval or avoid punishment. But in doing so, we also suppress our authentic desires, feelings, and instincts. This suppression creates a deep-seated conflict—an invisible cage in which we feel unheard, unseen, and disconnected why do people become alcoholics from ourselves. For more information on alcoholism, including treatment resources, check out the links on the next page.

  • Without close parental supervision and intervention, if necessary, these habits can lead to developing alcoholism later in the young person’s life.
  • One of the key reasons, according to the data, is that people continue to participate for years after they have completed the 12-step program.
  • Contact us today to find out which of our treatment options if right for you.
  • Although there isn’t a gene for AUD, researchers believe that genetics accounts for roughly 50% of the risk factors of developing AUD.
  • Our liver uses these two enzymes to digest alcohol, first converting it to acetaldehyde — a toxic byproduct responsible for many of alcohol’s harmful effects — with the help of alcohol dehydrogenase.
  • However, an individual who struggles with drinking may struggle to avoid alcohol consumption.
  • We always encourage seeking professional help for treating your alcohol addiction.

Get Help for Alcohol Addiction

why do people become alcoholics

The stress and trauma that surround these types of events may lead you to try to self-medicate with alcohol, which can lead you to develop a harmful addiction. These alcohol statistics also show that 60% of people in alcohol treatment also need mental health treatment for co-ocurring conditions. Behavior and lifestyle habits are common risk factors for developing alcohol addiction. For example, a person will develop drinking patterns as a way to cope with stress. Others spiral into addiction by frequently attending events where drinking is normalized or encouraged. People Drug rehabilitation who have experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse or other forms of trauma are at higher risk for alcoholism.