The positive side is that treatment and recovery are possible, as suggested by the name of the month. However, it is still a major problem to be addressed, and people who are in recovery need to be supported to continue their new, healthy lifestyle without alcohol dependence.

To be able to avoid alcoholism and the long road to recovery, it’s necessary to know what causes this mental disorder and what the risk factors are.

Although it’s uncertain what actually causes alcoholism or alcohol dependence, genetics can play a role, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s website. Other risk factors include drinking 12 or more drinks a week, having five or more drinks at a time at least once a week, and having a parent who suffers from alcoholism.

Additional factors that increase risk include being a young adult and being a victim of peer pressure.

https://www.empowher.com/mental-health/content/learn-facts-about-alcoholism-september-national-recovery-month