UP FROM DOWN

The usual answer you get in AA/NA  is that "Nobody knows what causes it" or perhaps you might get someone who will say "Genetics" and cite twin studies. Some hold on to the misguided and discredited notion that Alcoholics process alcohol differently. Some will say it is an allergy.  

Researchers are now beginning to understand more, although this may threaten some sacred cows of many regarding Alcoholism and Addiction:

Childhood Trauma, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Alcohol Dependence

"'These high rates of childhood victimization in individuals with PTSD and alcohol and other substance-related problems suggests that there is a link between childhood adversity and the development of these disorders, although it is impossible to establish a direct causal relationship. However, even when studies control for demographic differences, family discord, and parental pathology, the specific relationship between childhood abuse and the development of substance use disorders holds true."

"Early-childhood trauma is strongly associated with developing mental health problems, including alcohol dependence, later in life. People with early-life trauma may use alcohol to help cope with trauma-related symptoms. This article reviews the prevalence of early-childhood trauma and its robust association with the development of alcohol use disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder."

National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Link



Researchers are beginning to understand the cause, but they are yet to understand the cure:   Forgiveness

See Post Traumatic Stress tab on this website on how to implement the cure.