Family History of Addiction
The Role of Family History
Did you know that children of addicts are 8 times more likely to develop an addiction?
We all have the genetic predisposition for addiction because there is an evolutionary advantage to that. When an animal eats a certain food that it likes, there is an advantage to associating pleasure with that food so that the animal will look for that food in the future. In other words the potential for addiction is hardwired into our brain. Everyone has eaten too much of their favorite food even though they knew it wasn’t good for them.
Although everyone has the potential for addiction, some people are more predisposed to addiction than others. Most people don’t know their family history of addiction very well. Addiction is not the sort of thing that most families talk about. Not too long ago you could have a raging alcoholic in your family and nobody would talk about it; however, family history is worth talking about.
Your genes are not your destiny; 50% of addiction is caused by poor coping skills and this is where you can make a difference. Lots of people have come from addicted families but managed to overcome their family history and live happy lives. You can use this opportunity to teach your children healthy coping skills. Don’t let your genes be the only legacy you pass on to your children. Let your coping skills be the legacy you pass on to your children.
Remember your children are 8 times more likely to have an addiction because of your addiction. But their genes don’t have to be their destiny. You can help your children lead happy lives by teaching them healthy coping skills. Don’t just tell your children not to do drugs, explain to them why, the risks involved, and how addiction has affected the family. It’s important for them to know the truth.
About the Author: Jeff Pope
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