Molly Watts

The Alcohol Minimalist Podcast

Molly Watts, Author & Coach

  • Genetics and Alcohol Use Disorder with Dr. Danielle Dick

Genetics and Alcohol Use Disorder with Dr. Danielle Dick

Monday 7th October 2024

Discover how genetics and environment influence alcohol use disorder with Dr. Danielle Dick on The Alcohol Minimalist Podcast.
46 minutes
Informative
Hopeful
Educational
Supportive
Engaging

About this podcast

The Alcohol Minimalist Podcast
Author:
Molly Watts
Overview:
Categories:
Navigating Alcohol Dependency
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Genetics and Alcohol Use Disorder: Insights from Dr. Danielle Dick

Episode Overview

  • Genetics play a role in alcohol use disorder but it's not as simple as inheriting a 'drinking gene'.
  • Risk-taking and impulsivity are significant factors influenced by genetic predispositions.
  • Environmental factors can either mitigate or exacerbate genetic risks.
  • Tools like SURPs questionnaire and CARES platform provide personalised insights into genetic risk.
  • Understanding your genetic predisposition can help make informed choices about alcohol consumption.
Understanding one's genetic risk can help make the best choices for promoting health and well-being
Ever wondered how much of your drinking habits are influenced by your genes? This episode of The Alcohol Minimalist Podcast brings you an enlightening conversation with Dr. Danielle Dick, a leading expert in psychology and genetics. Dr. Dick, the Director of Rutgers University's Addiction Research Center, shares her wealth of knowledge on how our genes and environment shape our relationship with alcohol.
She breaks down complex genetic concepts into easy-to-understand insights that can help you understand your own drinking patterns better. Dr. Dick explains that while there is a genetic component to alcohol use disorder, it's not as straightforward as inheriting a 'drinking gene'. Instead, it's about how our brains are wired to process risk and reward, which can lead to higher impulsivity and risk-taking behaviours.
She also discusses how environmental factors play a crucial role in either mitigating or exacerbating genetic risks. Molly Watts, the host, shares her personal journey of overcoming a family history of alcohol abuse and her own struggles with drinking. Her candid reflections make the conversation relatable and engaging. Together, they explore the importance of understanding one's genetic predisposition to make informed choices about alcohol consumption. Dr.
Dick also introduces practical tools like the Substance Use Risk Profiles (SURPs) questionnaire and the CARES platform, which provide personalised insights into your genetic risk for alcohol use disorder. These resources aim to empower individuals with knowledge, helping them make better decisions for their health and well-being. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the science behind their drinking habits or looking for strategies to create a healthier relationship with alcohol.
By understanding the interplay between genetics and environment, you can take proactive steps towards a more balanced life. Why not give it a listen and see how these insights could change your perspective on drinking?