Is Addiction Genetic?

In the past, the question of whether addiction is genetic was highly debated. Today, through science and research, we have a better understanding of addiction as a complex disease that genes and heredity can influence. 

Does this mean that someone with genes connected to addiction is destined to develop the disease? Absolutely not. 

There are multiple factors that, when combined with genetics, greatly influence an individual’s risk for developing a substance use disorder. However, addiction is not predestined or written in stone for anyone, and recovery is possible.

Can Addiction Be Genetic?

For a long time, studies have shown a connection between addiction among family members. It has been assumed that those with a close family member, meaning a parent, child, or sibling with a substance use disorder, have a genetic predisposition to addiction. 

However, science hasn’t understood how and why this is the case. Today, research points to a number of genes in human DNA that are linked to addictive behaviors. 

Parents can pass on their genetic influence on addiction to their offspring, but genetics is much more complicated than this. To understand this better, it’s important to look at addiction as a disease, which it is. 

Some individuals may have a higher risk of developing a certain disease based on genetic factors. For example, heart disease or certain types of cancer may run in a family. In some cases, genetic influence is difficult or impossible to overcome, meaning having a certain gene increases the risk of disease, no matter what you do. 

On the other hand, other genes, like those thought to be involved in substance use, don’t have a simple on/off switch. Instead, it’s often a combination of genetic factors and outside influences that contribute to substance abuse. 

In short, yes, there can be a genetic influence on addiction. However, it’s a genetic predisposition that can be overcome. 

Genetic Factors In Addiction 

Researchers have identified several genes believed to be connected to addiction. These genes influence the potential for addiction in different ways. 

Some genes alter how addictive substances are metabolized, while others affect dopamine production. Each of these, in its own way, can influence a person’s tendency toward addictive behaviors. 

There are also certain genes that are thought to influence very specific types of addiction. For example, the gene HIST1H2BD is associated with a higher risk of cocaine addiction, while CHRNA2 is believed to be connected with cannabis use disorder. 

Epigenetics and Addiction 

When we dive even deeper into the genetic influence on addiction, we come to something called epigenetics. This is one of the most interesting areas of study in addiction genetics because it shows us how our behaviors can actually influence our genes. 

Epigenetics looks at how our behaviors cause changes in cell function and gene activity, even though these changes aren’t initially written in a person’s genetic code. Over time, these changes can be passed on to offspring. 

Epigenetics can be seen as a positive or negative for the risk of addiction. Just as our negative behaviors can influence genetic outcomes, so can our positive behaviors. It’s entirely possible for someone with a genetic predisposition to addiction to break the cycle, and through a few generations, completely eliminate the destructive nature of these genes. 

Is Addiction Genetic or Environmental – Nature Vs Nurture 

Here is the great debate on genetic predisposition to addiction. Is it really genetic or is addiction influenced by the impact of a person’s environment? For example, a person with alcoholic parents likely grew up in an environment where alcohol use was normalized, along with experiencing trauma from their parent’s addiction. 

These are two known environmental risk factors for addiction. 

The question is, which had the most influence – nature (genetics) or nurture (environment)? In many cases, the answer is a combination of both. 

Genetics alone often doesn’t lead to addiction. The individual may have a tendency toward addictive behaviors, such as a heightened reward/pleasure response, or are more likely to engage in compulsive behaviors. 

However, without the influences of the environment and other outside factors, it’s likely that won’t develop a substance use disorder. 

In fact, the environment can have such a significant influence on the development of addiction, that it often doesn’t need the genetic component. 

An individual with no genetic risk factors may find themselves in social situations where drug or excessive alcohol use is common. They might also experience trauma as an adult or a child that leads them to turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism. 

There is an entire spectrum of genetic and environmental factors that can contribute to addiction. Still, it’s important to recognize that these factors don’t define you or your ability to avoid or overcome addiction. 

If you are struggling with addiction, or have a loved one that you’re concerned about. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is an invaluable resource for addiction, recovery, and mental health. They also offer a 24-hour National Helpline that can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Overcoming Genetics and Addiction in Massachusetts

Addiction is a serious, chronic disease, but with the right approach to treatment, it doesn’t need to define your life. Massachusetts Center for Addiction offers a full continuum of evidence-based addiction treatment and a holistic, individualized approach to care. 

We encourage you to contact us today for a consultation and learn more about how you can heal from addiction. Contact the Massachusetts Center for Addiction at 844-486-0671.