Is Drug Addiction Related to Genetics?
There is no simple answer here. It would have to be yes, and no.
Certainly, how our minds work plays a role in how susceptible we are to becoming addicts but that is not genetic. Early research announced they had found a genetic link for alcoholism but that turned out to be a misconception. Surely, genetics play some part in drug addiction but what plays a bigger part is personal choice and responsibility. There are many children of alcoholics and drug addicts who do not themselves become addicts. There are also many families where there are generations of alcoholics and drug addicts. Scientists just aren’t sure how and where genetics fit into drug addiction.
There certainly is something about the workings of a person’s mind that may give them more of a tendency to become drug addicts. However, it is just as likely that it is a condition such as depression that leads to the addiction. Starting out in drugs, it is personal choice and nothing more. It is an individual choice to say yes and try that drug. There is no gene forcing anyone to try drugs. Once a person is addicted, part of the addiction is the need for more and more drugs. That is the addiction and in some part, personal choice to continue feeding the addiction. Yet, it is not genetic.
The phenomenon of families in which drug addiction seems to be in every generation, scientists have not found a concrete answer. As mentioned, it could very well be the person’s circumstances or perhaps depression that drives them to drug abuse. The concern is; by putting addiction down to genetics, we are giving the addicts an excuse for their behavior. Part of overcoming addiction is admitting responsibility and owning up to the actions.
It is clear that drug addiction needs more study but to date, in all of the years of searching for the drug addiction gene; it just hasn’t been found. There is an answer; it’s just that no one quite knows what it is yet. There is one thing for sure and that is that the drug addict, regardless of what lead to the addiction, needs help. They need to overcome their addiction and take responsibility for their actions. Scientists continue to study the human brain and genetics and drug addiction. Perhaps some day there will be a clear connection but for now, there is none.
overabuse and addiction to drugs WILL KILL YOU. My cousin had a cocaine overdose and DIED. he couldn’t control his urge, but you can if you have these deadly diseases, you must be smart and seek help immediately.
http://www.drugabuseclinic.org/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=pv&utm_content=zs&utm_campaign=home