Those who are dependent on alcohol have a disease. Alcoholism creates an obsession that cannot be controlled, no matter how negative the consequences may be. This disease is one that occurs gradually, slowly taking control until eventually one is completely addicted. However certain risk factors and causes exist, and knowing these may help prevent this addiction from occurring altogether.
Family History
The Mayo Clinic states that certain genetic factors may increase your chances of becoming an alcoholic. Alcoholism Support elaborates on this by explaining that if either your parents or grandparents struggled with alcohol addiction, it places you at greater risk for suffering from this disease. Keep in mind however, that this is only a possibility and is not set in stone.
How Often You Drink
If you drink alcohol on a regular basis, you may increase your risk of becoming an alcoholic by subjecting your body to the possibility of dependency. The average person can safely enjoy one to two drinks per day without becoming addicted, according to Alcoholism Support. However anything above this amount may result in alcohol addiction over time.
Your Emotions
Your emotional state is a major contributing factor when it comes to determining your risk factor for alcoholism. As explained by the Mayo Clinic, some people tend to drink heavily when experiencing times of heavy turmoil, stress or emotional pain. Some feel that drinking numbs the pain and relieves their stress, and alcohol serves as a coping mechanism. What is not realized however, is that these same stress hormones actually lead to the progression of the disease, and it is better to seek professional help from a counselor or therapist rather than a bottle of whiskey.
Psychological Factors
People with low self-esteem are at a greater risk for developing a drinking problem or abusing alcohol simply because they want to fit in or be with friends who drink. These friends are referred to as enablers because they encourage you to drink, not realizing that you cannot control your alcohol consumption like they can.
It can be difficult to separate yourself from these people due to the fact that they are your friends and it boosts your self esteem when you are around them. You will soon find, however, that these people are only your friends when you are drinking--once you hit rock bottom because of this disease, they are nowhere to be found.
Society
Society as a whole makes drinking appear glamorous, portraying it as such in both advertisements and on TV programs. It indicates that drinking is a necessity for having fun. It is embedded as a natural part of Americana, increasing the pressure to drink just to fit in. This message is sent not only to impressionable teens, but to adults who may be experiencing a weak moment in their life, looking for answers to their problems.
