Causes Of Alcohol Dependency
While excessive drinking is problematic the label of 'alcoholic' should be properly reserved for those that are unable to control their need for alcohol to the point where their body becomes physically dependent on it, producing symptoms such as nausea and sweats when it is withdrawn. Socially, alcoholics have problems maintaining relationships and jobs, as alcohol becomes the most important factor in their life. Spotting the symptoms and consequences of alcoholism is easy enough, but declaring its causes is trickier.
It is impossible to say that one thing for certain causes alcoholism; rather it is more appropriate to talk about factors that may trigger alcoholism. Emotional problems such as depression, stress and low self-esteem are the most common reasons for the onset of alcohol abuse.
A sudden emotional shock may lead to heavy drinking in the short term to cope with the issue, but there is the risk that a great dependency on alcohol may develop. Finding other coping strategies, possibly with the help of a therapist or other healthcare professional, is a good way to address any problems before more substantial help is needed.
A hereditary link offers a possible explanation for what causes alcoholism as 3 in 10 men with an alcoholic parent become alcoholics themselves (there is a weaker link in women). It has been suggested that learned behaviour or a troubled childhood rather than genetics may be responsible for this link, but studies on twins separated at birth do support the idea that genetics are at least partly responsible. The genetic similarity may have something to do with many alcoholics being unable to process sugars effectively (insulin resistance syndrome).
This of course does not guarantee that if a family member was an alcoholic you will be too, it just means that you should be aware that statistically you are at a higher risk. Just as people who are aware they are at a high risk of developing other medical conditions may modify their lifestyle slightly, it is advisable that speaking to a GP about any concerns will give you the assurance that help is available should you need it. Equally, alcoholism has the potential to affect anybody, even those who don't appear to fall into any of the risk categories - advice services are always there for anybody who is concerned.
It is impossible to say that one thing for certain causes alcoholism; rather it is more appropriate to talk about factors that may trigger alcoholism. Emotional problems such as depression, stress and low self-esteem are the most common reasons for the onset of alcohol abuse.
A sudden emotional shock may lead to heavy drinking in the short term to cope with the issue, but there is the risk that a great dependency on alcohol may develop. Finding other coping strategies, possibly with the help of a therapist or other healthcare professional, is a good way to address any problems before more substantial help is needed.
A hereditary link offers a possible explanation for what causes alcoholism as 3 in 10 men with an alcoholic parent become alcoholics themselves (there is a weaker link in women). It has been suggested that learned behaviour or a troubled childhood rather than genetics may be responsible for this link, but studies on twins separated at birth do support the idea that genetics are at least partly responsible. The genetic similarity may have something to do with many alcoholics being unable to process sugars effectively (insulin resistance syndrome).
This of course does not guarantee that if a family member was an alcoholic you will be too, it just means that you should be aware that statistically you are at a higher risk. Just as people who are aware they are at a high risk of developing other medical conditions may modify their lifestyle slightly, it is advisable that speaking to a GP about any concerns will give you the assurance that help is available should you need it. Equally, alcoholism has the potential to affect anybody, even those who don't appear to fall into any of the risk categories - advice services are always there for anybody who is concerned.
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