Beyond the Genetics Model for Addiction

Beyond the Genetics Model for Addiction

Published December 2009

For many years, the addiction industry has insisted on the genetic model of addiction as the only acceptable paradigm. However, while genetics can contribute to drug or alcohol addiction development, it often only offers a partial picture. Twin studies and other scientific research show that genetics only plays a small percentage in the development of addiction, with at least half of the equation attributable to emotional and psychological factors. Therefore, beyond the genetics model for addiction, we can consider a holistic view of alcohol and drug dependency that acknowledges the minor genetic component but seeks to find resolvable root causes that have led to alcohol and drug addiction in the first place, such as trauma and other underlying causes.

Reaching Beyond the Genetics Model for Addiction

There are four other reasons alcohol and drug addiction develop.

• Chemical imbalance
  Chemical imbalances occur in the body due to two main reasons. Sometimes, preexistence medical conditions cause dependent individuals to self-medicate by using alcohol or drugs. In other instances, chemical imbalances become created by alcohol or drug intake itself, as dosage amount and frequency increase. As alcohol or drug use develops and escalates, the “need” to use heightens, as chemical changes become triggered in the brain and withdrawal begins to kick in during the time between uses. Research has shown that as little as a single drink daily can lead the body to initiate a chemical imbalance, predictably leading to alcohol dependency as time passes.
• Events of the past you have not reconciled
  Buried emotional trauma or heartache often lies at the core of alcohol or drug addiction. In these cases, the mind has repressed and refused to deal with lingering memories due to the inner turmoil, anger, fear, or intense sorrow they have caused. As a result, alcohol or drug use becomes a means of escaping these memories, and as a way to compensate for the emotional and psychological damage, they have wrought.
• Current conditions you are struggling to cope with 
  We learn our coping strategies relatively young, and some of us don’t have the best role models for dealing with life’s inherent challenges. We also might encounter personal tragedies, peer pressure, toxic or abusive situations, heartbreak, or job loss, making us unable to manage our problems and ourselves. As a result, drug or alcohol addiction becomes a shortcut to lasting coping strategies.
• Negative self-views and false beliefs 
  Many alcohol or drug-dependent individuals suffer from incredibly low self-esteem. Often received by others’ negative voices or a lack of correct perspective on life events, negative self-views prevent us from treating ourselves with dignity and respect. As a result, many alcohol or drug-dependent individuals “throw in the towel,” believing themselves incapable or unworthy of accomplishment, enjoyment, love, or healing.

Taking a Closer Look at Unhealed Trauma

For many, trauma and addiction are deeply interwoven issues that cannot be separated. However, if you or a loved one has been living with this type of pain, our holistic approach can help you move past it and begin living the life you want to live.

Addiction can have a profound and lasting impact on a person’s life.

At Passages Malibu, we understand that your addiction is only one part of your story—and we want you to know that you’re not alone in your struggle. We want you to feel safe and supported as you heal from trauma and addiction.

We believe holistic therapies can help you heal from trauma, addiction, and other issues to move forward with confidence in yourself and your life. We offer yoga sessions led by certified yoga instructors, one-on-one therapy with professional and experienced psychologists, acupuncture, massage, and meditation sessions for those who want an additional outlet for dealing with stress or anxiety. We also offer a variety of other holistic therapy methods that are proven to help individuals worldwide get and stay sober.

Our approach is based on scientific evidence-based practices and ancient traditions from around the world—so no matter what has brought you here, we look forward to the opportunity to help you heal.