Millions of people in the United States and around the world live with depression. Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions. Surveys show that between 5 and 17% of people experience this condition each year.
Many adults also struggle with alcohol abuse or addiction. In some cases, people may live with both depression and alcoholism. People with both conditions require specialized treatment to address the complex roots of their alcohol abuse and manage their mental health symptoms.
This article will explore the link between depression and alcohol abuse. You will learn:
- The symptoms of depression
- The connection between depression and alcoholism
- How to recognize alcohol abuse and addiction
- What to expect in treatment for depression and alcoholism
- Where to find comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment
If you or someone you love lives with depression and alcohol use disorder (AUD), you are not alone. Contact the Agape Behavioral Health specialists to explore our treatment programs or schedule an intake appointment.
Understanding Depression
Depression is a mental health condition that can affect a person’s health, relationships, and general functioning. While many people think of depression as feeling sad, major depressive disorder (MDD) has more complex roots and symptoms.
Some of the most common symptoms of depression include:
- Losing interest in activities someone once enjoyed
- Experiencing a low mood
- Feeling tired or fatigued
- Having intrusive thoughts about death or dying
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Inability to experience pleasure or happiness
- Feelings of shame, guilt, or self-hatred
- Changes in sleep patterns–experiencing insomnia or sleeping too much
In some cases, there may be an event that leads to depressive symptoms. In other cases, depression may occur without a clear cause.
Mental health experts believe there is a connection between depression and anxiety. People with anxiety disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), may develop depression symptoms.
Experts believe family history, trauma, and substance abuse are risk factors for developing depression. Some people experience chronic (long-term) depressive symptoms. Others experience short-term depression in response to a specific event.
Experiencing depression can increase a person’s risk of substance use disorder (SUD). It can also lead to strained relationships, physical health problems, job loss, and other complications.
Depression typically responds well to appropriate treatment. People who feel depressed must seek treatment as soon as they notice symptoms.
What is the Connection Between Depression and Alcohol Abuse?
People with depression may face a higher risk for alcohol misuse and addiction. Drinking alcohol can make depression worse, causing people to remain stuck in a destructive cycle that is hard to leave.
The symptoms of depression can keep people from feeling well or functioning normally. People who do not have healthy coping mechanisms or support to manage their depression may turn to alcohol for relief. While the effects of alcohol may give people a short break from the pain of depression, it can also lead to physical dependence or addiction.
Self-medicating with alcohol puts people at risk of short and long-term harm, including alcohol addiction. It can lead to problematic drinking patterns, including heavy and binge drinking. Prolonged, heavy alcohol use can change how the brain works. These changes make it very hard to stop drinking when you choose.
Among people diagnosed with alcohol use disorder, about 33% suffer from major depression and 11% from dysthymia, a milder form of depression.
People with depression and alcohol abuse must seek treatment to address both conditions simultaneously. Specialized treatment programs can provide the therapies and support people need to safely stop drinking and address their depression.
What to Expect During Treatment for Depression and Alcohol Use Disorder
If you live with alcoholism and depression, you must seek specialized treatment to address both conditions. Recovering from addiction and depression is not a one-size-fits-all process. Here is an overview of what you may expect during treatment for alcoholism and depression.
Assessment
There are many types of treatment programs and levels of care to meet people’s different needs. Before you start treatment, a medical or addiction specialist will assess your needs. This assessment will consist of:
- A physical examination
- Lab testing
- A complete mental health and medical history
- A family history of substance abuse and mental health conditions
- Questions about your past and current substance abuse
Your treatment team will use this information to create a safe, effective treatment plan. It will also help the specialists identify mental or physical conditions that may require extra care throughout detox.
Detox
Many people experience withdrawal symptoms as their body detoxifies from alcohol. Symptoms may include:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Tremors
- Headache
Some people experience seizures, confusion, and other dangerous symptoms. You will follow a tailored treatment plan to ensure your safety and well-being during detox. A detox treatment plan may consist of:
- Round-the-clock supervision, monitoring, and access to treatment
- Medications to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms
- Individual counseling and support groups
- Holistic treatment, including nutrition support, exercise, and mindfulness
Medical care, emotional support, and supervision can help you stay safe and on track throughout the detox process.
Treatment
After detox, you must continue to receive tailored treatment to address the roots of your substance use and learn to manage your depression. Treatment may include:
Antidepressant medications to reduce depression symptoms
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Psychoeducation
- Relapse prevention education and coping skills
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings or other support groups
- Holistic therapies, including exercise, acupuncture, yoga, art therapy, and more
- Aftercare planning and treatment programs
Participating in a comprehensive treatment program can help you safely stop drinking and manage your mental health symptoms. It can give you the tools and support you need to work toward a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggle with alcoholism and depression, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Agape Behavioral Health to learn about our treatment programs. Or, find support at any stage of your recovery by reaching out today.
References:
- World Health Organization (WHO): World Health Organization
- Mental Health America (MHA): Depression
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Alcohol Use Disorder and Depressive Disorders
- Psychiatry Online: Alcohol and the Etiology of Depression
