Causes of Alcohol Addiction Alcohol dependence is termed as 'Alcoholism'. It occurs when a person consumes large amount of alcohol on regular basis, and with time the body gets addicted to it. Chronic alcoholism is also the same thing. If it's not controlled on the right time it can lead to severe physical and mental health damage. The aftermath of prolonged alcohol abuse for a long period is very perilous and it does not just affect the drinker, but his/her family too. There are several treatments and support programs that guarantee abstinence of alcohol addiction. The causes of alcoholism differ for each individual addict. Few factors that can lead to drug addiction or alcoholism can be categorized as genetic, social and emotional influences. Most of the times these factors create a strong desire in the person to turn to alcohol and he/she may see it as the only solution to cope with life. Genetic factors play an important role in the causes of alcoholism. When alcoholism runs in the family, there are more chances of alcohol addiction in the future generations. Nevertheless, it varies from an individual to individual to take charge of their actions and responsibilities. People who have alcoholism in their families have a choice either to experiment with drinking or by managing their problems in a healthier way. It is wise to be aware of the choices a person makes regarding these issues, if the family has a history of alcoholism. Emotional factors include issues like depression, sexual or physical abuse, low self esteem or low self confidence, just to name a few. People often turn to alcoholism to numb their inner pain after going through sexual abuse or when they have to suffer it on a regular basis. But this coping therapy would only work till the alcohol starts becoming a trouble in their life, just like the abuse they are trying to escape from. One major reason for alcoholism is depression. People often start drinking alcohol as they think it can make them feel better. People who are bipolar are very vulnerable and use various means of self medicating such as prescription drugs and alcohol in an attempt to feel normal. Also, people who have low self esteem or low self confidence opt for alcohol as a liquid form of audacity. And if they continue drinking alcohol they often get involved in activities and say things that they wouldn't have if they were abstemious.
Other factors involve peer pressure which motivates an individual to drink socially and then develop an obnoxious relationship with alcohol. It all begins when an individual drink with friends, then drink at every social event and then alcohol becomes the most important part of his/her life. There are many other factors that lead to alcoholism. People who rely on alcohol suffer detrimental affects physically, socially and mentally.
References
http://www.researchomatic.com/Alcoholism-75317.html
http://www.researchomatic.com/Causes-And-Treatments-Of-Addiction-141774.html