08/31/2022
Today is International Overdose Awareness Day. Please take a few minutes to review this diagram listing common signs of drug overdose and alcohol poisoning.
Many people know that addiction tends to run in families. However, scientists were not sure whether this was due to environment or genetics until recently. As time goes on, researchers uncover more and more evidence pointing to an underlying genetic susceptibility in substance abuse disorders. There are many genes that work together to raise an individual's risk level for substance abuse disorders under the right conditions. When it comes to addiction, "genetics load the gun, and environment pulls the trigger."
Imagine this scenario: on their 21st birthday, two different people go out for an alcoholic beverage. Based off genetics, one person’s brain and nervous system could have a far stronger reaction to this drink, making it more likely for this person to struggle with responsible alcohol use. The other person in this story could go on to use alcohol responsibly without a second thought. While both people partook in the same behavior, one is automatically at a higher risk level. While behavior and environmental factors play a large role in addiction as well, it is important to realize that addiction is more than a choice.
Understanding neurobiological pathways of addiction and use of genetic technology to determine biochemical pathways of addiction are key to creating new and effective treatment for addiction. Furthermore, research on both genetic and environmental factors are key in creating strategies to prevent people from falling into addiction in the first place. If you know anyone or suffer from addiction yourself, please know recovery is possible. If you ever see someone showing signs of overdose (listed in the photo), call 911. You are protected by Good Samaritan Laws in the state of South Carolina.
