What Causes or Risk Factors Contribute to Alcoholism?

Those whose lives have been touched by alcoholism often wonder what causes or risk factors contributed to the problem of alcoholism? Was it something that could have been avoided, was it anyone’s fault? Are they at risk for alcoholism? It is important for individuals to be able to get answers to questions about a disease that is as serious as alcoholism is.

Alcoholism has both physical genetic and environmental causes and you can sum up the possible causes for anyone’s alcoholism in the following factors:

Certain genetic factors can make a person vulnerable to the possibility of succumbing to the effects of alcohol and individuals with a family history of alcoholism should be especially careful around alcohol.

A person’s emotional or psychological state can also make them vulnerable to the effects of alcohol. If a person is under high levels of stress, are overly anxious, or in long-term emotional pain they may turn to alcohol or other addictive drugs to ease the stress or pain of their situations. Scientist is exploring the possibility that certain stress hormones may be associated with the disease of alcoholism. Individuals with low self-esteem or those who have suffered from depression may also be at risk for alcoholism especially those who suffer from mental issues like bipolar or depression.

There are also social or cultural factors that may put individuals at risk for alcoholism including living in an environment in which alcohol is a staple, or is made to be a vital part of coping with life by those in close proximity of a young person growing up in such an environment and in which this person learns that alcohol is an accepted way of life. Alcohol is also portrayed in media and advertising to be glamorous and exciting and the accepted thing to do in social situations such as parties, and during downtime or during the holidays. Messages that it is ok to drink to excess can be interpreted as an acceptable way of life especially a life full of stress and pressure.

Individuals can be at risk for developing a dependence on alcohol if they are male and drink more than 15 alcoholic drinks a week or if they are female and drink more than 12 alcoholic drinks a week. The amount of alcohol consumed is just one risk factor for alcoholism other risk factors are age, genetics, sex, family history, and emotional and psychological influences. When one or more of these risk factors combine with consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short time so that dependence is established for alcohol the combination is strong for the development of alcoholism.

If you or someone you love exhibits any of the causes or risk factors for alcoholism and you suspect that they may have problems with being able to limit or stop drinking alcohol, it is important to encourage them to seek professional diagnosis and help.

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