Important question about the hereditary nature of alcoholism
I am 16, and like many 16 year olds (who are in a place where they can drink legally) drink on occasion. I have found that 2-3 beers at a party or with friends an family can make a social event more fun. But I really worry considering my genes. Of course, I’m responsible and don’t ever get like blackout drunk, but my family has a history of alcoholism.
My mother was an alcoholic, as well as my grandfather, and in general my family is predisposed to alcoholism. I do not want to do the same things to my family. It ruined many of her relationships and permanently damaged her, despite being sober.
My question is, how do you make the decision whether to drink or not? Should I fear alcohol? Is it still safe in moderation if my genes are predisposed to substance abuse? I don’t want to give it power, and while I think I can control it, my mother didn’t drink until her 20s, and only started being an alcoholic when her dad died in her 30s.
How do I approach it? While I know I shouldn’t, I can see how alcohol can be good in social situations and I enjoy it in moderation. Theres no concrete answer, I know, but please let me know your experience or any advice you might have. Thanks.