Causes of Alcoholism Genetics, Family History & Other Risks

These rates are similar to the rates for many countries in western Europe, and the rates are a little higher in eastern European countries. Rates in countries around the eastern Mediterranean and in Southeast Asia are much lower. Overall, rates in Africa are low, but they are very high in the new urban slums. The harmful use of alcohol can also result in harm to other people, such as family members, friends, co-workers and strangers. Alcoholics Anonymous is a decades-old treatment, but one that research shows is effective. A recent review found that Alcoholics Anonymous led to higher rates of abstinence from alcohol long term compared to other treatments.

Studies show that the rate of various types of fractures in older adults increases with heavy alcohol use. Most addiction professionals agree that an at-home detox or “going cold turkey” is never advisable. The best practice would be to talk with an addiction counselor or mental health professional about safe options to detox from alcohol. The age you start drinking can also have an impact on your chances of struggling with addiction.

Factors affecting alcohol consumption and alcohol-related harm

They should have an integrated treatment approach that addresses other mental and physical health conditions. They should emphasize linking different phases of care, such as connecting patients to mental health professionals, housing, and peer support groups when transitioning out of the acute phase of care. They should also have proactive strategies to avoid dropping out, involve the family in treatment, employ qualified and certified staff, and be accredited by an external regulatory organization. For example, individuals who are more likely to pursue or disregard risk are more likely to engage in heavy drinking; those who are less inhibited may drink more.

Alcoholism risk factors do not mean you will develop a drinking problem; however, they should serve as a prevention measure. If you have one or more risk factors, speak with a medical health professional about alcoholism warning signs and prevention resources. Alcohol abuse is one of the world’s most abused substances, and similar to other addictive substances, it can be difficult to stop drinking completely without professional help.

Medications

Treatment for alcoholism often involves a combination of therapy, medication, and support. If you think you might have an alcohol use disorder or if you are worried that your alcohol consumption has become problematic, it is important to talk to your doctor to discuss https://ecosoberhouse.com/ your treatment options. Today, we know that the symptoms of alcoholism can vary from one person to the next. Because the condition is progressive, these symptoms may increase over time in terms of the number of symptoms, their severity, and their impact.

• Childhood trauma can fuel problematic drinking in adulthood, because the person might use alcohol to cope with feelings of anger, depression, anxiety, loneliness, or grief.
• At the same time, alcohol slows down brain activity because it acts as a central nervous system depressant.

Biological children of alcoholics are substantially more likely to become alcoholics, whether they are raised by alcoholics or non-alcoholics. Similarly, non-biological children of alcoholics who are raised by alcoholics are less likely to become alcoholics than biological children who are raised by alcoholics. It’s a disease of brain function and requires medical and psychological treatments to control it. Treatment providers are available 24/7 to answer your questions about rehab, whether it’s for you or a loved one. Submit your number and receive a free call today from a treatment provider.

Biological Factors

The NIAAA found that young people who began drinking before the age of 15 were four times more likely to develop alcohol addiction than people who started drinking at the legal age. Primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists are pivotal in educating patients and raising awareness about the detrimental effects of alcohol https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/causes-of-alcoholism-why-are-people-alcoholics/ consumption. Within inpatient settings, it is essential to offer counseling services, especially to individuals who are identified as having AUDs. Considering many individuals with AUDs may also experience psychiatric issues, including a mental health nurse in their outpatient care is highly beneficial for comprehensive patient support.

• They may also report experiencing seizures, tremors, confusion, emotional disorders, and a pattern of frequently changing jobs following a few days of abstinence from alcohol.
• Behavioral treatments—also known as alcohol counseling, or talk therapy, and provided by licensed therapists—are aimed at changing drinking behavior.