Depression and Alcoholism

There is a direct correlation between depression and alcoholism with up to fifty percent of alcoholics exhibiting symptoms of major depression during a given period of time.

Heredity plays an important role in the onset of alcoholism and depression. Family history increases the propensity to develop either or both disorders. In addition, each condition has the potential to exacerbate the other:

• Heavy, frequent drinking increases the vulnerability to become depressed, considering alcoholism’s debilitating impact on overall health and emotional well-being, work and relationships.

• Individuals who suffer from stress and anxiety may use alcohol as a way to relax and escape from their problems. Yet, over time they will need to drink greater quantities to achieve the same results. This can lead to alcohol abuse or dependence.

People with depression and alcoholism have a heightened risk of suicide, vehicular accidents, as well as other harmful and risk-taking activities. Together, the illnesses can advance an existing depressive state, impair judgment and increase impulsiveness.

Individuals should seek help immediately by contacting a healthcare professional to develop a treatment program that addresses both disorders. A typical treatment approach will include detoxification, specialized counseling and often medication to facilitate recovery.

Although, treatment can be more challenging when individuals suffer from both diseases. For those seeking treatment for depression, alcoholism may enhance the chance of a relapse in recovery.

Conversely, people in the early stages of alcohol withdrawal and recovery may experience advancing symptoms of depression. Yet, these symptoms typically subside within a month of stopping consumption.

Sources: (1) “Alcohol and Depression” written by Ben Martin, Psy.D., February 16, 2006, http://psychcentral.com/lib/2006/alcohol-and-depression (2) “Alcohol and Depression” published by The Royal College of Psychiatrists, July 2006, http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk

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