There are several theories as to why some people develop an addiction and some do not. The genetic theory means that if a parent or other close relative was substance dependent, then you may be predisposed to developing an addiction if you abuse drugs and alcohol.

Statistics say that the children of those who experienced addictions are 8 times more likely to develop their own dependencies. However, you are not defined by your genetics. Just because a parent or other close relative was substance dependent does not mean that you are doomed to stay in addiction forever. There is always a way out. Choosing recovery today is the way out.

Coping skills are an important element to determining if addiction will occur. Addiction is essentially an unhealthy coping skill. People use alcohol and drugs to numb painful emotions and cope with trauma or mental health issues. Recovery is about learning new coping skills. While addiction says to use when you feel sad or stressed, recovery says that you don’t have to use when you face difficult feelings and experiences.

If you are concerned that you may have passed on an addiction gene to your children, it is still possible to make changes. Incorporating new, healthy coping skills can surpass genetic factors for addiction. If you are new to recovery, or considering treatment, you can put the brakes on any genetic factors that may be present by choosing sobriety today. Recovery will teach you how to cope with stress, mental health, trauma, and life’s disappointments without using alcohol and drugs.

There are also several other theories on the epidemiology of addiction. Some researchers theorize that social pressure, exposure to poverty and exposure to violence are other factors for addiction. No matter the roots, whatever may have led you on the path of active addiction can be reversed. Recovery is the solution.

By choosing recovery and using new coping skills, your children and family will learn that change is possible. Coping skills, like life lessons, can be passed down from generation to generation. There is never a bad time to make changes and lead by example.

At The Kimberly Center, we care about your recovery. Recovery doesn’t make you exempt from life, but sobriety can help you manage life better. Recovery can also start you on a new path. Call us now at 855-4-KCENTER to learn more about how treatment can help you move beyond the past.