What Causes Alcoholism?
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcoholism, you may wonder how this powerful addiction began. Why does it seem like some people never become addicted, while others become alcohol dependent so quickly? Will a person with alcohol addiction in the family become an alcoholic? Take a closer look at alcohol dependence and the root causes of alcoholism to understand more about the disease and recovery.
What Is Alcoholism?
Did you know that there is a difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence? Alcohol abuse is the act of drinking excessive amounts of alcohol until you feel ill or unable to think clearly. Alcohol dependence occurs over time and is a major part of alcoholism. When a person is dependent on alcohol, he or she is considered an alcoholic or alcohol addict. Signs of alcohol dependence include the following:
- Drinking to combat the effects of previous drinking sessions
- Drinking more than intended during any drinking session
- Consumption of more than two drinks during drinking sessions
- Strong withdrawal or hangover symptoms after drinking episodes
- In later stages, shaking of hands or limbs, irregular heartbeat or liver damage
- Cravings for alcohol
- Loss of consciousness or blackouts (periods of amnesia) during or after drinking episodes
Risk Factors that May Lead to Alcoholism
There is not one definite pattern or cause of alcohol dependence. Each alcohol addiction is unique, and people become addicted to alcohol for different reasons. Some of the reasons alcoholism begins include the following:
- Genetic and hereditary causes: Related family members may share a tendency to become addicted over time
- Environmental causes: Environmental causes of alcoholism range from peer pressure to traumatic experiences
- Co-occurring mental illness: Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder or hallucinations make alcoholism worse, and they may be a root cause of some cases of alcoholism
Find Alcohol Treatment and Family Support Now
Are you concerned about the drinking patterns of a friend or family member? Do you worry that you may have a drinking problem? If so, we would like to help. We offer a toll-free helpline that provides a confidential and safe place for you to discuss your concerns. When you call us, you will be connected with a recovery specialist who can help you do the following:
- Find rehab and alcohol addiction treatment
- Find alcohol detox services
- Find family support for alcoholism
- Plan and conduct a family intervention for an addicted person
- Work with your insurance company to arrange coverage for treatment
We are here 24 hours a day, and all calls are completely confidential. Call today, and break free from the cycle of alcohol addiction.
