Is Alcohol Abuse Hereditary?

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

24 Mar 2006 05:26 PM

My grandfather was an alcoholic. Every day at noon, he would mix up his "tea," which wasn't tea at all. All his errands had to be run before noon, so he could sit downstairs the rest of the day and drink. Dewar's and water, or cheap wine and Coke, all afternoon and evening. He was a little scary when he had been drinking; I never knew if he would be in a cheerful and funny mood, or an angry, more dangerous mood.

My father was known as quite a party guy before I was born. My younger brother claims to remember dad being quite a drinker when we were young, but I don't.

After several incidents of losing control of myself when drinking, I fear that I could easily slip into my grandfather's shoes. You'd think that one night ending with my head in the toilet would be enough to teach me to avoid alcohol, but I had to learn the lesson several times. You'd think that one horrible hangover headache would be enough to keep me away from liquor, but it wasn't. It's easier for me to not drink at all, and not have to face the thought that I may have inherited a tendency towards alcoholism.

Three big factors help the children of families with alcohol problems have a higher risk of developing an alcohol problem themselves.

1. Heredity: studies have shown that there can be a certain tendency for children of alcohol addicts to develop problems. Sons are actually more likely to develop problems if their fathers have problems. Some personality characteristics, like anxiety, antisocial tendencies, and excitement seeking can also help developing alcohol problems along.
2. Emotional Environment: a child may feel unhappy or insecure because of the alcohol-influenced behavior of a parent. Some children may get less attention if a parent is partying all the time, and the other parent has to take care of them. Unhappiness can make alcohol seem like a good escape or solution.
3. Habits: if you grow up in an environment where you see people drink a lot, you get used to having it everywhere. You can pick up the behavior without really noticing.

April is Alcohol Awareness Month. If you or someone you know has a problem with alcohol, please talk to a health care professional.

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Lanos (10) 12 May 2008 10:29 AM

I am from a family that has a history of alcoholism and substance abuse. Ever since I was a little kid I refused to drink. A couple of my siblings are excessive drinkers. I hope my kids can see the example I set for them by not drinking.

------------------------------------- Lanos This is a comprehensive addiction portal focusing on topics of alcohol and drug abuse. http://www.alcoholaddiction.org

Lanos (10) 12 May 2008 10:36 AM

Thank you for writing this. It is a great way to think about how our actions are created by previous environments. Have a great day.

Aimee Amodio (11995) 12 May 2008 11:04 AM

Thank you for your comments, Lanos!

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