Causes of Alcohol Addiction

Causes of Alcohol Addiction Alcoholism is rarely the result of one specific cause. Just as personality and identity are the result of many aspects of life, addiction is also influenced by factors such as the following:

Childhood environment
Current environment
Experiences in relationships
Exposure to alcohol
Genetics
Emotional responses to life in San Jose

While these elements and more can predispose San Jose residents to alcoholism or addiction, all people are equally accountable for the decisions they make. If a parent battles alcoholism, it is more likely that a child will become an alcoholic. However this does not excuse addiction. Knowing the causes of alcoholism helps individuals understand their addiction, but it is not a reason for addiction to begin or continue.

The Effect of Alcohol on the Brain

Alcohol alters the balance of certain brain chemicals. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) controls thoughts and actions, but when manipulated by alcohol GABA’s ability to function decreases. Alcohol also changes the amount of dopamine that the brain would naturally enjoy. Since alcohol floods the brain with dopamine, it causes the brain’s natural production of the chemical to diminish. As a result more alcohol is needed for addicted San Jose residents to merely attain feelings of normality.

Emotional and Psychological Causes of Addiction in San Jose

Alcohol is often used to offset personal pains experienced throughout life in San Jose. Events such as deaths, job loss and divorce can contribute to cravings for alcohol. Using alcohol while stressed may speed the development of alcohol addiction. Anxiety issues, depression and mental health disorders are also known to contribute to a dependence on alcohol. Social life in San Jose can contribute to alcohol addiction due to reasons such as the following:

Alcohol is heavily advertised by the media
Alcohol is easily attained
Alcohol use is generally accepted
Alcohol is a part of many social functions

The causes of alcoholism are numerous and complex. Each San Jose resident who struggles with addiction has his or her own story of alcohol dependence, but their versions of recovery and sobriety are generally similar and include professional rehab treatment and post-rehab accountability and support.

San Jose Residents Can Overcome the Causes of Alcohol Addiction

If you or someone that you love struggles with alcohol, the proper response is to find professional help. Please call our toll-free helpline and learn how you can address the causes of alcoholism. We are here to talk 24 hours a day, so you can begin the journey to sobriety now.