A descent into an alcohol use disorder doesn’t start in the same way for everyone. The complexity of how alcoholism starts is one reason many people have trouble acknowledging they have a problem. People often develop an addiction to alcohol because of a variety of factors. The potential to become an alcoholic depends on a person’s number of risk factors, some of which are entirely out of their control. It is important to understand how alcoholism develops so you can take the proper steps to get help for either yourself or a loved one.
Drinking at an Early Age
Alcohol is one of the most widely abused substances among young Americans. Almost 30% of teens have had at least one drink by the time they are 15. That number rises to 58% by the time they are 18. Around 7 million people between 12-20 admitted to drinking more than a few sips of alcohol per month in 2018.
One concern about young people consuming alcohol is their tendency to binge drink. Drinking too much at a young could affect brain functions since it continues developing in people in their twenties. The differences in the structure of the brain of a younger person versus an adult brain may allow them to consume more alcohol, which can be a way of how alcoholism starts.
Family History/Genetics
Having a parent or other family member with an alcohol problem increases a person’s risk of developing an alcohol use disorder. Other factors also play a role, like someone’s social circle and environmental surroundings. It’s not a given that having a family history of alcoholism will lead to a problem. However, it could be the difference in becoming addicted to alcohol after one drink. It can play a role in how alcoholism starts versus being a social drinker who doesn’t let the substance affect their daily life.
Being sensitive to stress could also exacerbate any hereditary behaviors that could affect decision making when it comes to drinking. Dealing with difficulties socializing, the fallout from poor parent supervision while growing up, or financial issues are one way how alcoholism starts.
Self-Medicating Mental Disorders
Self-medication is never the answer or the cure to mental health disorders. Many people use alcohol as a way of trying to cope with mental health disorders. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are conditions found in many people who seek treatment. How alcoholism develops is that they may treat their issues with ever-increasing amounts of alcohol.
Alcohol is a convenient solution for those who may avoid getting help treatment for their mental health problems. A lot of people also don’t realize they have underlying mental issues driving them to consume alcohol. It typically takes intensive therapy treatment to get to the root cause.
Get Help Battling Alcoholism from Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston offers clients the chance to reset themselves before starting their journey to sobriety. Our qualified staff aids you in navigating the path toward a life free from alcohol. We point you in the right direction so you can potentially get to the root of how alcoholism starts and see viable opportunities in the future once you make the choice to get help for your issues.
- Residential detox center
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Family therapy program
- Group therapy program
- Individual therapy program
Alcoholism is one of the most common substance use disorders in the United States. Getting treatment does not have to be a challenge. Find out more about our programs by calling Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston at 866.516.8356. It is never the wrong time to reach out for help. Make the call today and take the first steps on the road to recovery.
