Around 280 million people worldwide struggle with depression. Oftentimes, depression can be difficult to recognize. Unfortunately, many people turn to unhealthy coping strategies, like abusing drugs or alcohol, to cope with their depression symptoms. Although depression does not cause alcohol addiction (and vice versa) there are a number of ways we can see a connection between alcoholism and depression. Keep reading to learn more about the various links between alcoholism and depression.
At Maui Recovery, we are a luxury drug rehab in Maui, Hawaii that helps individuals overcome addiction and achieve long-term sobriety. No matter what you’re struggling with, our alcohol rehab offers a range of treatment options to ensure you receive the best care to treat your addiction and mental health needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you lead a healthier, happier life.
4 Ways Depression and Alcoholism Are Closely Connected
While alcohol addiction and depression don’t cause one another, it is important to recognize the connection between the two. Below are five ways that both disorders are closely connected.
- People Struggling with Depression May Turn to Alcohol for Relief
Left untreated, people struggling with depression may turn to alcohol (or another drug) to try to relieve their depression symptoms. While in the short-term alcohol can help alleviate your depression symptoms, alcohol is ineffective in treating your depression. Using alcohol as a way to cope with your depression symptoms significantly increases your risk of developing an addiction. This is why it’s critical to seek treatment if you suspect you may be struggling with depression or another type of mental illness.
- Alcohol Is a Depressant
Alcohol acts as a depressant because it slows down your central nervous system. This explains why many people who are intoxicated may struggle with their speech and movement, and their overall mood and behavior are impaired. While this doesn’t mean drinking alcohol leads to depression, it does highlight just how impactful alcohol can be on your overall behavior and mood. Once the alcohol wears off, many people may have a worse mood than before they started drinking.
- Alcoholism Can Worsen Depression Symptoms
Some people with alcohol addiction and depression may find that their depression symptoms worsen the more they drink. Likewise, the more someone’s depression worsens, the more they may feel inclined to drink to try to cope with their symptoms. This can create a harmful cycle that can greatly hurt your overall health and quality of life.
- Depression and Alcohol Use Disorder are Mental Health Disorders
Finally, it’s important to recognize that both alcohol addiction and depression are both mental health disorders that need professional help to achieve long-term recovery. Seeking professional support for your alcohol addiction, mental illness, or other co-occurring disorder can ensure you receive the personalized care you need to safely and effectively progress along your recovery.
Ready to Break Free From Addiction?
Now you know more about the connection between alcoholism and depression. Left untreated, many people with depression may turn to alcohol and drugs to help manage their symptoms. Not only is this dangerous and ineffective in managing your depression symptoms, but it can lead you to develop an alcohol addiction. This is why seeking professional support for your addiction and mental illness needs is critical.
Maui Recovery offers a variety of treatment options to provide you with the personalized care you need to best meet your unique recovery needs. We understand how isolating addiction can be. That’s why our compassionate team of addiction specialists and mental health professionals are here to help guide you along your road to recovery. Contact us today to learn about our addiction treatment services and depression treatment programs.
