What contributed to George's alcohol abuse?

George's alcohol abuse can primarily be traced back to the profound impact of his first wife and child's tragic death in a car accident. This devastating loss is a significant emotional trauma that can lead individuals to seek solace in substances like alcohol as a coping mechanism for overwhelming grief and pain. Such a traumatic event can create a sense of hopelessness and despair, prompting a person to turn to alcohol as a way to numb their feelings and escape from the harsh reality of their loss. In George's case, this heartbreaking experience serves as a critical turning point that sets the stage for his subsequent struggles with alcohol abuse.