Specifically, a growing body of research supports the use of motivational interventions for addressing does alcohol make depression worse substance use problems among patients with comorbid psychiatric and substance use disorders. Psychiatric treatment attendance is strongly related to clinical outcomes (e.g., Green & Pope, 2000). While the literature suggests that nondependent levels of alcohol consumption may impact the treatment of depression, subclinical levels of consumption may not be addressed in a general psychiatric or psychological setting.
How does drinking alcohol cause or worsen depression?
Consistent with the generally Halfway house negative results of these family type studies are the conclusions drawn from a recent study of 1,030 female-female twin pairs (Kendler et al. 1995). Among heavy-drinking depressed patients, readiness to change drinking behavior may be influenced not only by expectancies regarding alcohol use, but also by beliefs about the effects of alcohol use on their depressive symptoms. That is, patients who believe that their current alcohol use will interfere with their depression treatment may be more willing to change their drinking than those who do not see a link between the two. As part of this discussion, the therapists can attempt to highlight the discrepancy that exists between patients’ current situations and what they desire (Miller & Rollnick, 1991). For most patients, relief of depressive symptoms will be the foremost concern.
- Also, they will find themselves drinking at inappropriate times, like at work or school.
- Additionally, the long-term use of alcohol can impair cognitive functions, including memory, decision-making, and problem-solving skills, contributing to a decline in mental acuity and overall brain health.
- With extensive experience in the field of addiction treatment, Francisco is dedicated to helping individuals access the resources they need for successful recovery.
- If you’re trying to pave a path toward a new life, adopting healthier coping strategies for stress can be profoundly beneficial.
- But if you’re struggling with depression, and also trying to cut back on your drinking, you may want to discuss alternatives with your doctor.
Alcohol as a Depressant Substance
Francisco Church is a rehabilitation specialist and the chief editor of Recovery Ranger. He creates this site to offer guidance and support to individuals seeking to overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. With extensive experience in the field https://sync.bewisesolutions.com/best-low-thc-strains-list-of-10-strains-perfect/ of addiction treatment, Francisco is dedicated to helping individuals access the resources they need for successful recovery. If you are dealing with severe alcohol dependence and depression, look for healthy ways to keep yourself busy and distracted.
Address negative feelings when they come up
The liver metabolizes alcohol and breaks it down into less harmful substances. Drinking too much alcohol can overwhelm the liver and lead to inflammation, fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. If you have depression and drink too much alcohol, then you may be wondering if there are any treatments or lifestyle changes for someone in your situation. Researchers agree that alcohol and depression have a bidirectional relationship, meaning that depression can cause overuse of alcohol, but overuse of alcohol can also cause depression. This article covers everything you need to know about the connection between alcohol and depression.
