Breaking The Family Cycle

There has been a tremendous amount of research conducted on the impact of family history when it comes to alcohol and drug addiction. That research has proved without a doubt that there is a higher risk for an individual with a family history of addiction to develop an addiction of their own. According to most of these research studies, an individual with a parent who has an alcohol addiction is four times more likely to develop their own addiction. An individual with a parent who has a drug addiction is up to 8 times more likely to develop an addiction. The primary reason behind this increased risk is genetics. Aspire Counseling Service wants to ensure that individuals understand this risk and learn how to minimize it. This is the key to breaking the family cycle of addiction.

Numerous research studies have identified a variety of genes, and variations within those genes, that are associated with the addictive process in the brain. For example, one identified risk for alcoholism is linked to how some genes metabolize alcohol. These variations in genes can be passed down through family generations according to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD).

In fact, the research shows that about 50 percent of the root cause for alcoholism is genetics, according to the National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (NIAAA). The variation in these genes causes these individuals to absorb alcohol in ways that create pleasurable effects and significantly increase endorphins in their brain, increasing their risk of developing alcoholism.

None of this means that an individual with a family history of alcohol or drug addiction will become addicted themselves. In fact, this knowledge provides individuals with the key to protecting themselves against the risks of addiction. Remember, there is only an increased risk, there are still other factors involved, and your choices and actions are big factors.
Avoiding alcohol and drugs if you have a family history is the best way to reduce your risk of addiction. Being aware of your risk, you should monitor any consumption of alcohol or use of even prescription drugs, so that you are aware if you are developing any problems. Be aware that triggers such as excessive stress, financial troubles, relationship issues, work problems, and any mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, can all cause you to be more likely to turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism. Learn to develop healthy ways of coping with these stressors and seek counseling if needed from Aspire Counseling Services.

Another factor that impacts your risk of alcohol or drug addiction that relates to family history involves your exposure during early childhood. Having a parent that is addicted to alcohol or drugs increases a child’s risk of negatively impacting their mental health. This can result from ineffective parenting, or a lack of attachment or nurturing. These psychological scars can affect your ability to function and relate well to others. Counseling with experts, such as those at Aspire Counseling Services, can help individuals to heal those wounds and develop some insight. These experienced counselors can help you to address any mental health issues and cultivate coping skills that will help you to reduce your risk of addiction and break that family cycle.

Aspire Counseling Services offers a variety of counseling options that can help someone break the family cycle of addiction. From addressing mental health issues, to counseling for individuals and families, there are options to reduce your risk of addiction or to help you recover from any addictions you may have developed. Call Aspire today.