Addiction is a complicated disorder that affects millions of people around the world. One of the most common questions that people ask, especially when they begin discussing recovery, is, “Is addiction genetic?” The more we learn about the interaction of our genes, our environments and the experiences we have lived through, the better we can understand how some people are more susceptible to addiction, and how recovery is always possible through the right support.
Understanding Addiction: More Than Just a Choice
Addiction is not simply a lack of willpower or a failure in decision-making, but rather is a chronic condition that changes the way the brain functions in its response to pleasure, reward and impulse control. Over time, certain substances such as alcohol, drugs or certain behaviours, like gambling, can change brain chemistry, making stopping more difficult even when they want to stop.
At The Wellbourne Clinic we consider addiction a health issue, not a lack of morals. Our treatment programmes provide medical guidance and therapy to provide our clients the opportunity to get free from the addiction, and to move forward with their lives.
The Genetic Link: How DNA Influences Addiction Risk
Science shows that genetics can play a considerable role in the risk of developing an addiction. Family, twin and adoption studies suggest that 40-60% of a person’s risk of developing an addiction may be linked to genetics.
This information does not suggest that an individual will inevitably develop an addiction simply because a parent or relative experienced addiction but might mean that person has a predisposition for addiction based upon their genetic make-up. Genes can impact:
- How the brain functions relative to drugs or alcohol
- How the body processes substance(s)
- The sensitivity of the brain reward centre
- Personality characteristics related to impulsivity, anxiety or risk-taking
For example, people may inherit a greater sensitivity to dopamine, also known as the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter, which can make certain substances feel more rewarding, increasing the risk of misuse over time.
The Power of Environment
While genetics can influence the likelihood of developing a substance use disorder, a person’s environment will often determine whether the addiction develops. Upbringing, relationships, stress, trauma and exposure to substance use all provide not only significant environmental influences but also risk factors.
Key environmental influences include:
- Childhood experience: A person raised in a family or community where substance use is normalised or there is a lack of emotional safety, is at a heightened risk.
- Stress and trauma: People often turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism for unresolved trauma or mental health issues.
- Social and cultural factors: Friends, accessibility of substances and general social and cultural attitudes can determine a person’s behaviour.
- Mental health: While conditions like depression, anxiety and PTSD often co-occur with substance use, mental health issues become part of the cycle of addiction that can be hard to break without treatment and support.
At The Wellbourne Clinic, we recognise that every person’s journey into addiction is unique. That’s why we offer personalised treatment plans that consider both biological and environmental influences.
Nature and Nurture: How They Interact
Addiction is not the result of genetics or environment alone. It is more than likely that it is a combination of both. Someone may be genetically vulnerable, but whether that person develops a problem with substances typically is dependent on one’s life situations, emotional health and overall experiences in life.
This interaction is called epigenetics – this is where environmental influences can turn genes “on” or “off.” For example, chronic stress or trauma can alter how genes related to stress response and reward function are expressed, increasing susceptibility to addiction. However, positive change and recovery can also influence gene expression, supporting long-term healing.
Breaking the Cycle
Even if addiction runs in your family, recovery is always possible. At The Wellbourne Clinic, we provide a safe, confidential space where people can explore the underlying causes of addiction and develop healthier coping strategies.
Our approach includes:
- Medical detox under professional supervision
- Therapy and counselling to address emotional and psychological triggers
- Family support sessions to rebuild trust and understanding
- Aftercare planning to maintain progress after treatment
By treating both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction, we help clients gain the tools and confidence to lead a life free from dependency, regardless of genetic background.
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction, The Wellbourne Clinic can help you. Whether you’re looking for information, researching treatment options or simply need someone to talk to, our professional and caring team will support you through every step of the recovery process.
Contact us to have a confidential discussion with our admissions team and get to know how we can help you.
