Dr. Kevin Mc Caulley MD is a renowned addictions expert. In this video explains how the genetics are an important part of addiction.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZ3LjV5JsC8

He talks about many of us having “resilient” genes.  In other words, some of us are not affected at all by alcohol, pills or drugs. Even if we did become affected, we have the ability to thrive because of it. He uses the analogy of the rocks. My blog on Ann Hoskinson’s experience describes this resilience.

Analogy of rocks

There are rocks because of the chemical composition that can have water flow over it. Therefore, it barely puts a dent in the rock.

However, there are “soft” rocks.  Water shapes it quite easily.  We need both kinds of rocks so we can see the beauty in the environment with the different shapes.  His film uses the landscape in Utah as the backdrop for his analogies.

Similarly, the environment (like the water) can shape our brains.  Our brains are just like these different kinds of rocks.  Some of our brains are more vulnerable to addiction.  Depending on the environment and the genetic make up of individuals, we can be more easily addicted.

Hope in recovering from the disease

Strong rocks are not always better to have. Using the example of rocks,  “soft” rocks are people who are susceptible to addiction.  Getting the illness and then learning to recover helps us to be more useful.  Our children benefit from that learning.  We have not only hope but benefit from suffering the disease and then recovering. It reminds me of my article “The Embroidery Hoop” (Pages 40-43)

Genetics and Addiction

Nature can favor resilience over adaptation. We learn to adapt and grow in certain situations as part of being human.  We also learn to survive and thrive given certain obstacles and stressors.

The dictionary defines resilience as having a positive attitude and optimism.  As resilient people, we can have the  ability to regulate emotions, and the ability to see failure as a form of helpful feedback.

We can pass on addiction genes to our child in some cases.  Our work that we put into recovery from the disease is also passed on.  This is my most favorite part of his movie “pleasure unwoven” because it gives hope for future generations.