Did you know that your genes can predispose you to developing an alcohol use disorder (AUD)? It’s true—roughly half the risk for AUD comes from your genes.
Genes alone do not determine whether or not you will develop AUD, as environmental factors, as well as interactions between your genes and the environment, also play a role. However, it’s important to be aware of your personal risk factors so that you can make healthy choices regarding alcohol use. Here in Arizona, an average of 3,670 annual deaths are attributed to excessive alcohol use, and 84 percent of them are in individuals 35 years and older.
Wolf Creek Recovery offers personalized treatment for alcohol use disorders. We create individualized recovery plans that address the unique needs of our clients using evidence-based and holistic therapies. We also teach individuals new ways to cope with stress and challenges. Let’s answer the question of, “Can alcoholism be hereditary” and explore the genes that can play a role in the development of AUD.
Hereditary Alcoholism
AUD often seems to run in families. This is because certain genes can increase or decrease your risk of AUD. For example, some people of Asian descent carry a gene variant that makes it difficult to metabolize alcohol. As a result, they experience symptoms like flushing, nausea, and rapid heartbeat when they drink. To avoid these symptoms, these individuals abstain from drinking, naturally lowering their risk of AUD. However, things aren’t quite this simple. Environmental factors also play a role, including life experiences and past trauma.
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Genetics
Genetics refers to the study of how genes and traits are passed down from one generation to the next. Multiple genes play a role in the onset of AUD. These genes influence various biological processes, including alcohol metabolism, brain function, and stress response. For instance, some genes speed up alcohol metabolism while others slow it down. Others affect how individuals experience pleasure and reward from alcohol, while others make a person more or less likely to use alcohol as a coping tool for stress.
The “Alcoholic Gene”
The term “alcohol gene” refers to various genes that influence a person’s risk of AUD. While no single gene is solely responsible, multiple genes can interact with environmental factors to affect susceptibility. These include:
- ADH1B helps metabolize alcohol into acetaldehyde, a toxic substance. Certain variants result in faster conversion, leading to unpleasant side effects.
- ALDH2 breaks down acetaldehyde into acetate, a less toxic substance. Slower variations lead to a buildup of acetaldehyde, causing adverse reactions.
- GABRA2 helps regulate GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Variants impact the brain’s reward and stress response systems, affecting how people respond to alcohol.
- OPRM1 is involved in the brain’s reward pathway. Variants affect how rewarding alcohol consumption feels.
- DRD2 encodes a receptor for dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Certain variants can affect dopamine signaling and a person’s susceptibility to addiction.
- CRHR1 is involved in the body’s response to stress. Variants can influence how a person copes with stress and anxiety.
- SLC6A4 is responsible for the reuptake of serotonin, a chemical that regulates mood. Some variants can affect serotonin levels, influencing mood and drinking behavior.
Alcohol Tolerance and Genetics
Alcohol tolerance is the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol. When you repeatedly consume alcohol, physiological changes in the body occur, reducing its sensitivity to alcohol’s effects.
There are two main types of alcohol tolerance: metabolic tolerance and functional tolerance. Metabolic tolerance refers to metabolizing alcohol more quickly due to the liver increasing its production of enzymes that break down alcohol. Functional tolerance occurs when the brain adapts to the presence of alcohol, reducing its sedative effects. This can lead people to drink more to achieve the wanted effects.
Genetic vs Hereditary Alcoholism
“Genetic” and “hereditary” are often used interchangeably, but they can mean different things.
“Genetic alcoholism” refers to the influence of genetic factors on an individual’s susceptibility to developing alcohol use disorder. It means that certain genetic variations or inherited traits can increase the likelihood of an individual developing problems with alcohol.
“Hereditary alcoholism,” on the other hand, is the transmission of AUD risk through family history. It encompasses a broader concept of genetic inheritance, where the likelihood of AUD is passed down from parents to offspring through genes and shared family environments.
Environment Vs DNA
AUD is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Studies suggest that genetic factors account for 40-60 percent of a person’s risk for AUD. But the environment also plays a major role. Growing up in a household where alcohol use is normalized or where there is a high presence of alcohol misuse increases the likelihood of developing alcohol problems. Other environmental factors that play a role include early life experiences (e.g., trauma, abuse), cultural and societal influences, life stressors, and access to alcohol.
Environmental Factors of Hereditary Alcoholism
The environmental factors that contribute most to hereditary alcoholism are:
- Family environment. Children of parents who misuse alcohol are more likely to develop AUD because this behavior is modeled for them.
- Childhood trauma and adverse experiences. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, can increase the risk for developing AUD.
- Social and peer influences. Having peer groups that encourage heavy drinking can influence a person’s drinking habits.
- Availability and accessibility. Environments with high availability of alcohol can increase consumption and the risk of AUD.
- Socioeconomic factors. Financial difficulties and poverty can contribute to increased alcohol use as individuals use alcohol to cope with stress and hardship.
Tips for Reducing AUD Risks
Just because you are at risk for AUD does not mean you will develop the condition. But, you may want to take extra precautions. First, educate yourself on the risks associated with alcohol use and the signs of alcohol use disorder. Knowledge can help you make informed decisions about your drinking habits.
Next, set clear limits and monitor your drinking. Avoid unhealthy behaviors such as binge drinking. Since many people drink to cope with stress or mental health problems, also make sure to create healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, hobbies, meditation, or talking to a therapist. Finally, build a supportive network around you and seek professional help if you find it difficult to control your drinking.
Getting Help for Alcohol Use Disorder in Prescott, AZ
Alcohol use disorder may be complex, but it is a treatable condition that responds well to professional support. The first step is to admit your problem and seek help. There are various treatments available, each tailored to the different needs and severity levels of AUD.
Detox is typically the first step, usually lasting a few days to a week. You will then move onto alcohol rehab where you will participate in various therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, and motivational interviewing (MI). Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous can provide peer support and accountability as well. You may also be prescribed various medications, such as naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram to decrease cravings and minimize withdrawal symptoms.
If you or a loved one is experiencing an alcohol use disorder, Wolf Creek Recovery can help. We have staff in recovery, which means you’ll be met with understanding and support from the start. With a wide range of evidence-based and holistic therapies, you can enjoy a comprehensive recovery that heals your mind, body, and spirit. Build a life you love today. Reach out to Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202 to learn more about our programs.
