Is Addiction in Your DNA?

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Is addiction a choice or is it in your DNA? The answer, it turns out, is far more complex and fascinating than you might think.

Forget everything you thought you knew about addiction. It's not a moral failing or a lack of willpower. According to James Sherer, M.D., interim chief medical officer at Carrier Clinic, part of Hackensack Meridian Health, "Addiction is not a moral failing - it’s a medical condition shaped by both genetic vulnerability and life experience."

Science reveals that up to half of a person's risk for addiction is tied to their genes. But that's only half the story. Your environment, from childhood experiences to daily stress, plays a crucial role in whether that genetic switch is flipped. Dr. Sherer explains how addiction can "hijack" the brain's reward system, a process that can take over a year to heal from.

So, is it nature or nurture? The truth lies in the intricate dance between the two. Discover why understanding this connection is the key to compassionate care, breaking down stigma, and finding hope in recovery. Dr. Sherer emphasizes a powerful message: "Recovery is real...There's always hope."

Curious to learn how your own biology and life story could influence risk, and what steps can be taken for prevention and treatment?

Click to unravel the full story behind the science of addiction.

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, know that freedom from addiction is possible. Learn more about Carrier Clinic and how they can help you or your loved one find a path forward. Call 866-266-1616 to speak with our Addiction Admissions Experts 24/7.

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