Addiction and Genetics – is there a connection?

The road to recovery from addiction may appear to be like repairing broken glass, a futile exercise when there is little family support. Therapists and doctors around the world stress the importance of family involvement in the recovery of an afflicted member. Many families recognise this and offer support, but what if a family is responsible for a person’s addiction?

It runs in the family!

When people with addiction present themselves for treatment, they frequently throw a curveball at the therapist and family by claiming that they have a family history of addiction and that it is in their genes. This may appear audacious and mysterious—a denial with an excellent defence. Many therapists and family members feel trapped by this type of response, but is there truly a link between genetics and addiction? Is a family history of addiction similar to a family history of diabetes or heart disease?

Let’s find out.

We believe that a person chooses to drink or use drugs. Therapists emphasise that sociocultural, psychological, and biological factors all play a significant role. However, several studiessuggest that there might be a link between genetics and addiction.

The genetic link

Numerous studies have found that people with a particular genetic predisposition are more likely to become addicted to something – substances or behavioural addictions such as gambling – once they start. They would find it difficult to quit the addictive behaviourdue to the so-called addiction genes.

Researchers also discovered that these individuals experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.According to scientists, identifying the specific addiction gene is difficult because addiction is a complex disease with multiple genes involved. Furthermore, not all addicts possess these genetic characteristics, and not all individuals possessing these characteristics have an addiction. This still leaves us with the question of how genes affect people with substance use disorders.However, when researchers studied large families, they discovered a pattern that appears to indicate the hereditary nature of addiction. By studying the DNA patterns of members of large families with addiction, they found that some genes, such as the DRD2 gene (dopamine receptor gene), were common among cocaine and alcohol addicts.

Coping with addiction genes

Researchers conclude that while there is a genetic link to addiction, only half of it is genetic. The rest is a destructive coping skill. We can conclude that addiction has a vital genetic component, but this is no reason to continue being an addict!

Even those who believe a family history of addiction dooms them can still have hope.Humans are complex beings whose lives are intricately linked to their environments. Understanding that many people with a family history of addiction have never used drugs or alcohol is essential.

Those with a family history of addiction suffer from poor coping skills. Do not use a family history of addiction to justify the addict’s situation.

Addiction is a complex disease in which the body and brain function abnormally, causing them to use a substance repeatedly even though it causes severe harm to their bodies. It affects relationships, careers, families, and friends. A family’s role in the proper rehabilitation of a person with an addiction, rather than contributing, is to provide emotional support and assistance for the person to recover.

Though family history and genetics create a predisposition for a person to develop an addiction, they are also lifelines for addicts to overcome addiction and live a normal life.

Though there is strong evidence to suggest that some people may be more likely to become addicted because of their genes, it’s important to remember that genes are only one of many things that can lead to addiction. Behavioural and environmentalfactors also play significant roles.

What can you do to avoid addiction?

If you’re worried that your genes might make you more likely to become addicted or want to deal with it, here are some things you can do:

Learn about your family history:Learning about your family’s history of addiction can help you make better decisions. It can help you find possible dangers and take steps to avoid them.

Get help from a professional: Talk to a medical professional or genetic counsellor. They can look at your genetic risk factors and give you personalised advice.

Follow healthy habits: Living a healthy life can help lower the risk of becoming addicted, even if you are genetically more likely to be addicted. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and ways to deal with stress.

Avoid high-risk situations: If your genes make you more likely to become addicted, you should stay away from places or situations where drug use is common. Gather around you people who will support you and who are sober.

Stay informed:Keep up with the newest genetic and addiction research. There may be new medicines and other actions that can help manage genetic risks.

Early help: If you or someone you care about shows signs of addiction, get help right away. Dealing with addiction can be easier if one receives early help and treatment.

Keep in mind that genetics is only one part of the problem when it comes to addiction. Personal choices and the environment also play prominent roles. When dealing with addiction issues, it’s vital to get professional help and advice.

If you or your loved one is struggling with an addiction-related issue, click www.hopetrustindia.com to book an online appointment with an expert.