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Although thereโs no such thing as an addiction gene, there are certain genetic predispositions that can lead to inheriting addiction. If someone in your family struggles with addiction, youโre at a much greater risk of inheriting it compared to someone who doesnโt.
The risk is higher if itโs a first-degree relative who is addicted like parents, siblings, or children. Of course, having a family history of addiction doesnโt guarantee youโll develop an addiction.
Addiction is often caused by various factors such as lifestyle choices, mental health, and environment. Genetic testing can analyze your DNA and identify your risk for substance use disorders like alcoholism and opiate addiction.
Many commercial DNA tests canโt assess your risk for addiction or substance use disorder specifically. Instead, theyโll look into your genetic addiction risk severity and provide a breakdown of how susceptible you are.
For this, we recommend AvertD and Genetic Addiction Risks (GARS). These tests look for genetic markers associated with a higher addiction risk. As with any DNA test, there are pros and cons to genetic testing.
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DNA tests canโt predict addiction, but they can give you a heads-up. Researchers have successfully identified genetic variations that are associated with a higher risk of drug addiction and alcohol dependence. This also helps them predict how severe a future addiction will likely be.
These genetic tests look for reward gene polymorphisms. When exposed to certain environmental factors, this gene can increase impulsive, compulsive, and addictive behaviors.
Itโs important to note that just because someone in your family suffers from drug abuse doesnโt mean that gene was passed on to you. However, if youโre not sure whether addiction runs in the family, DNA testing for addiction may be a good option.
Addiction is a complex interplay of several genetic factors, genetic susceptibility, and your environment. Some examples include:
Additionally, if your dopamine production is easily triggered, you may be at risk of developing an addiction. This is because the release of dopamine can feed an unhealthy reward loop, causing you to seek things that can cause a high.
So while there is a genetic basis for addiction, itโs not, in itself, inherited. The factors that may make you turn to substances are in your genes.
People with a heightened risk for addiction should avoid vices and substances to cope with stressful situations or negative emotions. Consider avoiding social situations where addictive substances are involved.
Other tips to reduce your risk of addiction include:
Lastly, itโs important to know when to ask for help. If youโre struggling with any form of addiction, seek treatment as soon as possible. Healthcare professionals can help you explore different treatment options catered to your needs.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrationโs National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
If you or your loved ones are suffering from addiction, look into treatment centers for treatment plans, potential medical monitoring, support, and psychiatric help.
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