The best method for eliminating a disease is preventing the disease from occurring in the first place. Alcoholism is no different in this manner. Preventing alcoholism from taking hold can prevent years of suffering from this disease. Understanding the risk factors of alcoholism is the first step in prevention.
What is Alcoholism?
Alcoholism is a serious disease caused by the prolonged use of alcohol. Over time, users become physically and psychologically addicted to drinking. In most cases, alcohol addiction treatment is necessary for removing the physical addiction and is the first step in tackling the psychological addiction to alcohol.
Alcoholism is a chronic disease where sufferers are unable to control their drinking and are often preoccupied with drinking alcohol. These individuals have a strong need or urge to use alcohol regularly and to excess. When alcohol is not consumed, the individual may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as shaking, sweating, and nausea.
Alcoholism can lead to serious health complications such as liver damage. It reduces a person’s ability to maintain major obligations, including work, school, and family obligations. Individuals may feel necessary to use alcohol in situations where its use is unsafe, such as while driving. Individuals may even avoid social activities and other fun hobbies to use alcohol.
Genetics
One major risk factor to alcoholism is genetics. Although there is not one specific gene that identifies a propensity towards alcoholism, there are a combination of genes and other genetic factors that may make a person more prone to addictive behaviors. If an individual has one or more close family members who suffer from alcoholism, there is a higher risk of them developing the same condition.
In addition, children who are raised by those suffering from alcoholism may also have environmental risk factors to consider, even if the issue is not inherited. By understanding the risk factors, individuals can work to avoid risky behaviors that may lead to an alcohol addiction.
Mental Health
Many people who have mental health issues may also have issues with addictive behaviors. Often, those suffering from mental illness may seek refuge in alcohol or other substances in lieu of treatment. These actions are considered self-medicating behaviors as the user is seeking relief for their illness through alcohol or other illegal substances.
Environment
Where a person lives, their education level, and other socioeconomic factors can also be a major risk for alcoholism. Research shows that people living in poor conditions are nearly 150 times more likely to drink heavily. The stress and frustration of feeling trapped in such an environment can play a heavy role in developing alcoholism. Abuse and trauma, especially at a young age, can also lead to alcoholism.
Society
Many societal aspects can increase the risk of alcoholism. For example, college students are at an extremely high risk of developing alcoholism. There is a strong drinking culture on college campuses. Many students will face the pressure of their peers and begin drinking, sometimes heavily. Without proper control and intervention, these activities could lead to alcoholism.
Starting Age
The age a person starts drinking also has a strong tie to developing alcoholism. It has been found that those who begin drinking before the age of 15 increase the likelihood of developing this addiction. It can also play a role in reducing a person’s education and income-earning abilities which could then lead to a higher risk of alcoholism.
Alcoholism is a serious condition. Unfortunately, prevention only goes so far. Fortunately, there are treatment centers available to help with this problem.
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