If you have a family history of alcohol dependence, you are at much greater risk of becoming an alcoholic. Being aware of this is important and it should help you make better decisions about your alcohol use, such as deciding not to drink at all, or realizing that you need to get help right away if you start to lose control of your drinking. This can help prevent you from becoming dependent on alcohol. Drinking less and drinking less often, learning to limit stress and cope with emotional turmoil, and treating any existing mood disorders you may have through therapy or medication can also help lessen the chances that you will become dependent on alcohol.