Is Addiction Genetic?

Is Addiction Genetic?

Genetics can influence addiction, and research suggests a relationship between addictive behavior in families and intergenerational tendencies. Studies show that approximately 12.5% of American children have a parent with a substance use disorder, and children of alcohol-dependent parents often exhibit higher drinking rates, begin drinking earlier than peers, and consume higher levels of alcohol.^2,3 Further research found that children raised in homes with a drug or alcohol-addicted caregiver are eight times more likely to develop an addiction themselves.⁴

While there is less research on the genetic components of behavioral addictions, one study found that compulsive shopping tends to run in families.⁵ Similarly, genetics may account for up to 40-60% of eating disorders, complex mental health conditions often conceptualized within an addiction framework.⁶

Although some people talk about addictive personalities, most experts debunk this simplistic claim. Assuming that addiction is hereditary and genes alone can cause addiction is too simplistic, even dangerous. Although specific personality traits play a role, distinguishing correlation from causation is impossible.

Is Addiction Hereditary?

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, genetics and heredity are two different concepts. Genetics studies heredity and the slight but essential differences between genes. Heredity refers to the specific passing down of traits across generations via reproduction.⁷ Therefore, if evidence suggests that addiction may be genetic, it can be argued that heredity may also be connected.

Is There an Addictive Gene?

While genetic research is relatively new, scientists can now examine subtle variations in DNA sequences, helping to identify connections between known genes and specific disorders. Experts theorize that genetic makeup affects how the brain responds to certain neurotransmitters associated with addiction, like dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters affect essential functions, including mood regulation, emotion, pleasure, and planning.

Miscommunication or disruption among these neurotransmitters can make someone more vulnerable to impulsivity and impulse control disorders, possibly heightening the likelihood of addiction. While there is no ‘gene for addiction,’ certain variations or mutations may influence the development of an addiction.

Genes that may play a role in addictions include:^8,9

• ADH1B: This gene may be associated with alcohol dependence.
• ALDH2: This gene may be associated with alcohol metabolism and dependence.
• AKLDH2: This gene may be associated with alcohol metabolism and dependence.
• MAOA: This gene is associated with dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which coincide with stress and stress management.
• NPY: NPY is associated with the central and peripheral nervous systems, which help with stress resilience.
• COMT: COMFT coincides with functions in the prefrontal cortex, such as personality, behavioral inhibition, and emotion.¹⁰
• SLC6A4: SLC6A4 helps with transporting and communicating serotonin.
• DRD2: This gene encodes part of the dopamine receptor.
• CHRNA2: Some research suggests this gene is associated with marijuana addiction.¹¹
• HIST1H2BD: Some research suggests a genome-wide association between this gene and cocaine addiction.¹²
• OPRM1: Research shows this gene may be associated with naltrexone treatment response.
• CYP26: Research shows an association between deficiencies in this gene and protectiveness against opioid dependence.¹³

Is There Genetic Testing for Addiction?

Scientists can test genes with blood, hair, skin, and amniotic fluid. Technicians use sequencing tests to look for particular chromosomal or DNA changes, depending on the condition. Presymptomatic tests can help identify risks for certain diseases, possibly addiction.

Other Causes of Addiction

Addiction is multifaceted, and a genetic predisposition to addiction does not inherently mean someone will develop a problem. Nature and nurture both play a role in developing addictive tendencies.

Other factors that can influence the development of addiction include:

• Prevalence of other mental health disorders: There is a comorbidity between addiction and mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia.
• Prevalence of personality disorders: Addiction and personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder, avoidant personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder, may also be connected.
• Childhood trauma: Childhood trauma, which can include childhood emotional neglect, having an abusive parent, or identifying as an adult child of an alcoholic, is a significant risk factor for addiction.
• Addiction in the culture you grew up in: Social influence and peer pressure can increase the likelihood of substance use, which may normalize addictive behavior.
• Minority stress: Minority stress often coincides with chronic stress. Some people may use drugs or alcohol to cope with this impact.
• Physical health conditions: Certain health conditions, especially those associated with chronic pain, correlate with people using drugs or alcohol. These substances can provide temporary relief, and building a tolerance may happen quickly.

Will My Family Have a Genetic Predisposition to Addiction?

Feeling concerned about passing on addiction tendencies to your children is normal. That said, remember that no one factor causes addiction. More than anything, being aware of the potential risk factors is crucial. Practicing transparency and open communication with your loved ones can also be beneficial. If you sense a family member is struggling with addiction, you can be a supportive ally throughout their recovery.

Below are ways to better prepare your family for possible addictions:

Help Establish Protective Factors

If you struggle with an addiction or substance use disorder and have children, focus on building their self-esteem. Get your children involved with supportive communities like a sports team, religious organization, or other prosocial groups. Be mindful of how you parent and regularly model healthy ways to combat stress and practice self-care.

Provide the Roadmap You Used

Your story may help other family members if you have an addiction. Keep details age-appropriate and consider the risks of telling your children about your past. Consider talking to a mental health professional if you need help structuring what you want to share.

Educate Loved Ones on Addiction

Have conversations about addiction early. From a very young age, kids absorb everything you say and do. Be open about the genetic risk of addiction and certain behaviors, identifying the natural and logical consequences of using drugs or alcohol.

Embrace Open Communication

People may numb their emotions when they do not feel supported by their loved ones. Aim to be an empathic and nonjudgmental presence for your family. Do not assume you know how someone feels. Ask thoughtful questions and avoid lecturing or simply giving solutions. When someone struggles with an addiction, they often want support and a sense of being understood.

Seek Treatment Early

Consider connecting your child with a mental health professional immediately if you suspect your child may be struggling with an addiction. Even if they do not want to stop using drugs or alcohol, they may feel more comfortable sharing their mental health concerns with someone else.

Accept What’s In Your Control

You ultimately cannot control genetics and addiction, no matter how loving, compassionate, or educated you are. Instead of trying to change yourself or a family member, focus on setting boundaries and being a healthy role model. Even if you feel helpless, remind yourself that you can control your responses and focus on improving your mindset.

Treatment for Addiction

Regardless of your specific circumstances, numerous treatment options for addiction are available. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and what works best for one person may not have the same effects for someone else. If you suspect a genetic predisposition to addiction, seeking professional support early is beneficial.

Rehab

People with moderate or severe addictions may benefit from inpatient or outpatient rehab. Inpatient treatment provides 24/7 monitoring, structure, and support, lasting from a few weeks to several months. Outpatient treatment, on the other hand, can be highly focused, but clients live at home and can continue working and resuming their usual activities.

Psychotherapy

Long-term therapy is typically recommended for people recovering from addiction. Therapy helps people understand their triggers, develop new coping skills, and build a better sense of self-worth.

Addiction therapy may include:

• Motivational interviewing: Motivational interviewing can be effective in helping clients move from an ambivalent state of change to a more motivated mindset.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT examines the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and can help people better understand their specific addiction triggers.
• Dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT): DBT focuses on strengthening skills rooted in mindfulness and emotional regulation, which can help manage addiction cravings.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR can benefit individuals with trauma histories by focusing on desensitizing them to traumatic material and healing from the past.
• Group therapy: Group therapy incorporates a variety of topics ranging from psychoeducation to social skills to self-esteem.
• Experiential therapy: Experiential therapy may include art, dance, psychodrama, and other creative interventions to facilitate recovery.

Medications

Medication can be a crucial part of someone’s addiction treatment plan, possibly helping to reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and manage distressing mental health symptoms.¹⁴

Medications used in addiction treatment may include:

• Opioid medication: Naltrexone, buprenorphine, Suboxone, and methadone are FDA-approved treatments for opioid use disorder. They require a prescription and close monitoring.
• Alcohol medication: Disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone may be prescribed for alcohol use disorder.
• Psychiatric medications: Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed when comorbid depression or anxiety symptoms present.

Support Groups

Peer-led online support groups are available everywhere, and they have helped millions recover from addiction. 12-Step Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are popular, but there are alternatives, such as Smart Management and Recovery Training (SMART), LifeRing, and Women For Sobriety. Children may benefit from groups like Al-Anon, Children of Alcoholics (COA), and the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACOA).

Final Thoughts

Addiction can be challenging and devastating for individuals and their loved ones. We’ve made tremendous strides in understanding addiction genetics and risk factors and reducing stigma regarding addiction treatment. If you or a loved one is struggling, help is available. While you can’t prevent addiction, you can proactively improve the situation and support your family.