This document discusses patterns of alcohol consumption and addiction. It begins by noting that 31% of Americans report abstaining from alcohol. Genetics can play a role in addiction vulnerability, as some individuals are born with a higher sensitivity to the rewarding effects of drugs and a lower sensitivity to the impairing effects. Environmental stressors like childhood trauma can also influence substance use. The document explores definitions of responsible drinking versus problem drinking and addiction. Addiction is characterized as a chronic brain disease involving compulsive drug seeking and use despite harm. While some debate whether it should be considered a disease, most evidence supports it having biological and genetic components that interact with environmental factors to increase risk.