Alcohol Use Disorder Risk: Impacts of Genetics and Family History

Have you ever wondered why some people struggle with alcohol use more than others? The answer is complex and involves multiple factors, to include environment, personal experiences, along with genetics and family history. Just as people inherit physical traits like eye color or height from their parents, people can also inherit a higher likelihood of developing Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) – which is when someone drinks too much alcohol and it becomes a problem.

How Genetics and Family History Impact Risk for Developing AUD

A person’s risk for developing AUD depends, involves how much, how often and how quickly they consume alcohol. Drinking alcohol in any manner that could cause harm to a person increases their risk of developing AUD over time. The environment people grow up in also plays a major role in their chances of developing AUD. For example, if a child grows up in a family where there’s a lot of drinking or alcohol-related occurrences, they may be more likely to have issues with alcohol themselves. They may also learn unhealthy coping habits and develop threatening behaviors related to alcohol from their families.

A Hopeful Outlook

Even though someone with a family history of AUD may be at higher risk, it doesn’t mean they are destined to have the disorder. Many people with this background decide not to drink at all and never develop AUD.

No matter your background, you have the power to make positive choices. Just because someone may be more at risk doesn’t mean their future is set in stone. There are always ways to stay healthy, avoid risky behaviors, and live a life free from the effects of alcohol misuse. The most important thing is to stay informed and make the best decisions for your well-being!

If you do decide to drink alcohol, there are many ways to stay healthy and make good choices! Check out this article with some tips to help people drink alcohol more responsibly: Defining a Drink and How It Impacts People Differently – Own Your Limits