January 6th, 2025
Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, impacting not only those who struggle with it but also their families and communities. It is a complex disorder influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, mental health, and social pressures.
One of the most common questions people ask is, Is alcoholism genetic? Let’s explore the genetic and environmental contributors to alcoholism, how family history impacts alcohol use, and what steps can be taken to address and treat this condition.
If you or someone you know is struggling, learning more about alcohol addiction therapy, group therapy, or how to find a therapist near you—whether in Chicago or through online mental health services— Clarity Clinic can help. Keep reading to get started!
Alcoholism ( alcohol use disorder -AUD) , is a chronic condition characterized by an inability to control or stop alcohol consumption despite its negative impact on health, relationships, and daily functioning. Common symptoms include:
AUD affects millions of people, and its causes can be traced to a mix of genetic, environmental, and social factors.
Research shows that genetics can play a significant role in determining a person's risk for developing alcoholism. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), children of adults who misuse alcohol or with a family history of alcohol addiction, are four times more likely to develop an alcohol use disorder themselves and abuse alcohol. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that up to 50% of the reason you may develop an addiction depends on genetics.
Specific genes can influence how your body processes alcohol, how your brain reacts to it, and how susceptible you are to developing a dependency. However, having these genetic traits does not guarantee you will develop alcoholism; environmental and personal choices also play a critical role.
These specific genes that are risk factors for developing an addiction have to do with how the central nervous system responds to alcohol and how the body metabolizes alcohol.
Additionally, if mothers consumed alcohol while pregnant, their babies may be born with an alcohol addiction as well as birth defects. This is called fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), where newborns experience alcohol withdrawal once leaving their mother’s womb.
These babies have a higher risk of developing an alcohol substance abuse disorder later in life. This is because adults born with FASDs tend to have psychiatric and personality disorders that increase their likelihood of abusing alcohol and drugs.
Family history plays a significant role in shaping an individual’s relationship with alcohol. If you grew up in a household where alcohol or alcoholism use was prevalent or problematic, it can influence your behaviors, attitudes, and risk for developing an alcohol use disorder. Family history impacts alcohol use in several ways.
Family members serve as role models, and their behaviors around alcohol can shape how you view drinking. For example:
Living with a parent or close relative who has alcohol use disorder can create emotional stress and trauma, which may contribute to future alcohol use.
In households where alcohol use is common, it’s often more accessible for minors. Early exposure can increase the likelihood of developing a problematic relationship with alcohol later in life. Alcoholism can also perpetuate across generations due to a combination of genetics and learned behaviors.
While we have established that genetics can play a role, there are also other factors that can significantly influence the likelihood of developing an alcohol addiction. These include:
If you’re concerned about your risk for alcoholism, here are some red flags to look out for. If you are still unsure about your situation, it may be best to talk to a mental health professional who specializes in alcohol addiction treatment or substance abuse disorder. Red flags to look out for:
Yes! It is absolutely possible to break the cycle of addiction, even with a genetic predisposition. Many individuals with a family history of substance abuse can choose sobriety or moderate alcohol use with the right support.
Surrounding yourself with the right people can help you break the cycle of addiction. These days there is a whole community of individuals who are interested in living healthier lifestyles and have joined the sober curiosity movement. You can also look for friends who enjoy living active and healthy lifestyles that will support your choice of consuming minimal to no alcohol.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism, there are effective treatments available. Some of the most common options include therapy, alcohol addiction treatment programs, online therapy, and support groups.
Therapy: Individual or group therapy helps address the underlying causes of addiction. Searching for therapy near you or a therapist in Chicago can connect you with local resources like Clarity Clinic. Our therapists specialize in substance abuse disorder and can help create a treatment plan while getting to the root of why you drink to begin with.
Alcohol Addiction Treatment Programs: Many mental health facilities in Chicago offer specialized treatment for alcohol use disorder, including detox and rehabilitation programs. At Clarity Clinic, you can join our PHP program, IOP program, or virtual IOP program if you need help dealing with alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders.
Online Therapy: For flexibility, online therapy or online mental health services provide convenient access to licensed therapists experienced in treating substance abuse disorders.
Support Groups: Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or other group therapy programs provide peer support and accountability. At Clarity Clinic, we host an Early Recovery Support Group for those trying to recover from substance abuse and addiction.
Alcoholism is a challenging but treatable condition. Whether you’re exploring alcohol addiction therapy for yourself or supporting a loved one, know that recovery is possible.
Deciding to seek help, whether by finding therapy near you or starting online therapy, is a brave and essential step toward breaking the cycle of addiction. Clarity Clinic offers the best substance abuse and addiction therapists in Chicago and Illinois to help you get the expert mental health care you need.
Our mental health clinics are located in the Loop, River North, Lakeview (Broadway and Belmont) for those in Chicago. If you are located in a suburb such as Oakbrook, Northbrook, Schaumburg, Evanston, Winnetka, or Naperville, IL, head to our Evanston or Arlington Heights clinic. We also offer online therapy to make your mental health care fit seamlessly into your busy life and schedule.
Find the right mental health therapist near you and begin your treatment journey today at Clarity Clinic, the best mental health clinic in Illinois.
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