Thought Leaders Blog Series Volume I

What are psychological causes of alcoholism
Alcoholism is both a genetic and psychological condition that effects over 41% of the population (World Health Organization, 2021). An individual’s family of origin has the greatest impact in determining if they will suffer from alcoholism later in their life (Alcohol and the brain: An overview 2021). The heritability of alcoholism is 49% (Chinnusamy, M., Eugin, P. R., & Janakiraman, S. (2021), meaning that based on various genetic components, almost half of the risk that an individual will suffer from alcoholism, comes from their family genetics.
The psychological causes of alcoholism vary based on a number of factors, including those mentioned above. Psychologically, when someone is under immense stress, such as when starting college, a new job, or other major life stressors, alcohol can be a quick an easily accessible tool to turn to for immediate relief of symptoms and discomfort. Those who suffer from alcoholism have similar behavioral traits, including low distress tolerance, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. One-third of individuals who report suffering from alcoholism report a mental health diagnosis including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.
Overall, alcoholism is a family disorder. The genetic components account for one part of the disease; however, the psychological distress that transfers to the family of the individual dealing with alcoholism is also pervasive. Family members of those who suffer from alcoholism report increased depression, anxiety, and other mental health symptoms directly related to their loved one’s disorder. 59% of family members reported high stress, financial burden, domestic violence, and child abuse and neglect directly related to the substance use of a family member (Understanding Alcohol Use Disorders and Their Treatment 2012).
The psychological implications of alcoholism are detrimental to not only the individual suffering, but also their family members and those closest to them, which causes a myriad of psychological implications resulting from the disease.