Is Alcoholism Genetic? Understanding Hereditary Risk and Family History

If you have parents, siblings, or other close relatives who struggle with alcohol, it is only natural to wonder if the condition is something that can be inherited.

Alcoholism is genetic, but the answer is more complex than it seems. Understanding how genetics and environment play a role can help you better comprehend your own level of risk and what you can do to minimize it through education, support, and treatment.

The Genetics of Alcoholism

According to research conducted at the University of Oxford, UK, twin and family studies indicate that approximately half of an individual’s total risk for developing an AUD is due to genetics, with the other half due to environmental influences and life experiences.[1]

Because genetics contribute so heavily to the risk of alcohol dependence, it is understandable why people who come from a family where there is a history of alcoholism are at higher risk themselves.

However, it is crucially important to remember that genetics only contribute to the risk of developing an AUD and do not mean it is predetermined. Many people who have a strong family history of alcoholism never develop an alcohol use disorder, while many people with no family history of alcoholism still do. Because of the complex interplay between genetics and environment, many people with a family history of alcoholism who grow up in supportive environments and avoid excessive or problematic drinking patterns throughout their lives will never develop an AUD.

What Genes Contribute to AUD?

There is not one specific “alcoholism gene.” Rather, hundreds of genes have been found to contribute to the increased likelihood of developing an AUD. These genes primarily contribute to four main areas:[2]

• The body’s ability to process alcohol
• The brain’s reward circuitry
• The brain’s ability to regulate impulses
• The body’s ability to handle stress

Gene variations play a major role in how people react to alcohol.[3] Different types of gene variations can result in greater sensitivity to alcohol or lessened sensitivity.

Sensitivity to alcohol can present itself in several ways. Some individuals may find that they get drunk faster than their peers. Others may experience physical side effects immediately upon consuming small amounts of alcohol. Other gene variations may lead to changes in how someone perceives or reacts emotionally to alcohol.

How Do Lifestyle Choices Impact AUD?

Lifestyle choices greatly impact a person’s susceptibility to developing an AUD.

Lifestyle choices include how frequently someone drinks, whether or not they binge drink, how well they manage stress, whether or not they exercise regularly, and whether or not they receive regular counseling or therapy sessions. Research indicates that choosing lifestyle choices that protect against excessive alcohol use and provide alternative mechanisms for coping with stress can greatly reduce susceptibility to developing an alcohol use disorder.[4]

Why Can’t I Stop Drinking?

Some people find that one drink at a party quickly turns to heavy drinking. Or find that if they go to a party intending not to drink, they find themselves drinking anyway. If you cannot control your alcohol consumption, that is a sign that help may be needed.

Other signs of problematic drinking include:

• Continuing to consume alcohol despite experiencing negative social, emotional, or psychological impacts
• Experiencing physical harm associated with continued heavy alcohol consumption
• Becoming increasingly tolerant of alcohol and needing larger amounts of in order to achieve the same feelings or sensations
• Using drinking as a mechanism for coping with stress or emotional difficulties
• Feeling withdrawal symptoms if too much time has passed without alcohol

If AUD is Common in My Family, How Can I Protect Myself From Developing It?

Protecting yourself from developing an AUD involves engaging in lifestyle choices that promote moderation when it comes to drinking.

Engaging in the following activities can significantly reduce your risk for developing an AUD:

• Delaying your first alcoholic beverage until you are older
• Limiting your consumption of alcoholic beverages
• Building positive coping skills that don’t involve alcohol
• Attending therapy or counseling sessions
• Exercising regularly
• Treating any underlying mental health conditions
• Surrounding yourself with friends and family members who do not condone excessive drinking

Epigenetics and AUD

Epigenetics refers to the study of how environmental exposures and life experiences can change the way genes are expressed without actually changing the underlying DNA sequence.[6] Researchers are studying whether heavy, prolonged alcohol use may change epigenetic marks (how genes are turned on or off) in ways that could possibly affect an individual’s future risk for developing an AUD, and potentially even affect future generations.

Although this is still emerging research, it suggests that your choices and lifestyle today could impact you tomorrow in ways researchers are only beginning to understand.

When Should I Seek Professional Help?

Consider seeking professional help if:

• You find that you are unable to stop or control drinking once you begin
• You experience withdrawal symptoms after stopping or reducing consumption
• You repeatedly try to stop or drink moderately but cannot
• Your drinking is causing problems at work, school, or socially
• You experience guilt, shame, or hopelessness regarding your drinking
• You are afraid that your drinking may negatively impact your health or well-being

Reaching out for help as soon as possible is highly recommended because earlier intervention typically leads to better results.

Overcoming Your Family History: How Epiphany Wellness Can Help

While genetics can play a large role in increasing risk for developing an AUD, genetics are not destiny.

Both environmental and genetic factors contribute equally to someone’s likelihood of developing an AUD. By creating awareness and promoting education regarding the role of genetics and environment, along with providing accessible resources and support networks for those who wish to pursue sobriety, our goal is to empower readers in their pursuit of living a fulfilling life free from the effects of alcohol addiction.

If you find that your alcohol use is becoming something hard to manage, reach out today. Our admissions team is available to walk you through your options and help you take your first step.