My dad was an alcoholic, and died of pancreatic cancer when I was twenty, which, according to the doctors, is often exacerbated by alcoholism. I, like him, get addicted and form habits very easily. Luckily, I've never been tempted to smoke or do drugs, and I didn't like the taste or feeling of alcohol until I was in my twenties, but I'm perfectly capable of forming habits that are damaging in themselves, like staying up all night on the internet a lot (a LOT), or eating really, really excessive amounts of junk food on a daily basis, buying a lot of it in one go and telling myself 'it's for the whole week,' but going home and eating all of it. I'll form habits of really stupid things, like blinking a certain way, and never quite break them - they'll just go a way for a bit but come back, more or less frequently. Now that I like alcohol, I'm worried about drinking more than a glass, ever, just in case I do the same thing as my dad. I would never dare to have a cigarette, or try any drug, even if I wanted to, because I'd be too scared that I'd never be able to stop. Is there anyone else who had an addicted parent who's worried that they'll go the same way? Does anyone have any coping strategies, or words of wisdom?
We all do have one form of inherited addiction or the other but the last thing I would want is to carry on what is ruining my parents. I want to advise you @Elizabetonth that you know there are tendencies for you to be addicted, it is best you moderate your intake of everything. Self control and keeping your mind busy as well as abstinence from alcohol will give you great relief. Surround yourself with friends, people to talk to physically and online and talk with the best kind of people and not those who will lead you to an addiction.
Hi @Elizabetonth. It seems to me that what you are describing is a disorder, maybe anxiety. I would suggest that you visit your doctor and tell him what you have shared here. Your concern or worry that you may experience your father's condition is valid but you seem to be very conscientious about it and I see that as a benefit to you. This awareness hopefully will steer you clear of over indulging when drinking alcohol. You may want to set a schedule of activities to make sure you do get enough sleep and eat healthier rather than junk foods and drink lots of water. I think that after you hear what your doctor has to say and follow his treatment plans you will feel much better.