The Relationship Between Alcohol and Depression

The relationship between alcohol and depression can be both intricate and interdependent. Clinical and experimental research suggests that heavy alcohol consumption can disrupt essential systems in the brain, altering mood regulation and heightening your vulnerability to depressive symptoms.

Conversely, if you are grappling with depression, you may often resort to alcohol as a means of temporary comfort, attempting to alleviate the heavy emotional pain that depression can bring. Moreover, the simultaneous presence of these conditions can fuel an ongoing cycle where each condition worsens the other [1].

What is Depression? 

Depression commonly refers to a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that you once enjoyed. It is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders and can vary in severity from mild to severe, and gets in the way of your ability to function normally in daily life [2].

Depression can be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and depression treatment often includes therapy, medication, or a combination of both to improve [3]. 

What it Means to be Clinically Depressed

Clinical depression refers to depression that meets the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR), commonly known as major depression, major depressive disorder, or persistent depressive disorder.

It typically involves experiencing a certain number of symptoms (such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, changes in appetite or sleep, feelings of worthlessness, etc.) for a specific duration (usually at least two weeks), and these symptoms must significantly impair the person’s ability to function in daily life [4]. In severe cases, you may feel like you are too depressed to work, function, or do anything. 

What is Non-Clinical Depression?

Non-clinical depression may refer to experiences of sadness, low mood, or other depressive symptoms that do not meet the full criteria for a clinical diagnosis of depression. This could include milder forms of depression or depressive symptoms that are temporary and do not significantly impair your ability to engage in daily life. Non-clinical depression can still cause distress, but it may not reach the threshold for a formal diagnosis of depression [5].

Related: Do I Have Depression or am I Just Sad?

What is Alcohol Use Disorder? 

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic, relapsing alcohol addiction condition that is characterized by compulsive alcohol use, a loss of control over your alcohol intake, alcohol dependence, and a negative emotional state when not using alcohol.

AUD exists on a spectrum with mild, moderate, and severe qualifiers. A formal diagnosis is typically made based on criteria outlined in the DSM, which include factors such as the amount and frequency of alcohol consumed, unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control drinking, and the presence of withdrawal symptoms [6]. Treatment for alcohol addiction often starts with alcohol detox, followed by inpatient rehab then outpatient addiction treatment programs.

When Alcohol Use Becomes Problematic

Alcohol use can become problematic when alcohol affects various aspects of your life, including your physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and daily functioning, and if you find that you are binge drinking regularly or can’t stop drinking alcohol on your own [7].

Even if you don’t meet the criteria for a diagnosis of AUD, your alcohol use may still be causing harm and, therefore, warrant further attention. This is especially true in the case of high-functioning alcoholics who may seem put together externally but struggle internally with mental health, physical health, and maintaining relationships.

Related: Understanding Gray Area Drinking: How Social Drinking Becomes Addiction

How Depression and Alcohol Abuse are Related 

Depression and alcohol use often intertwine, forming a complex relationship that can worsen both conditions. When suffering from depression, you may turn to alcohol as a means of self-medication, seeking temporary relief from your symptoms of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness.

Does Alcohol Make You Feel Depressed?

While alcohol may initially offer a sense of escape, it ultimately compounds the problem, disrupting brain chemistry and worsening depressive symptoms over time. This creates a detrimental cycle where depression leads to alcohol use, which in turn makes depression worse [8].

Furthermore, depression can lead to social isolation and withdrawal, increasing the likelihood of alcohol misuse as a coping mechanism to alleviate loneliness or to feel more socially connected in social situations [9].

Biological Factors 

Biologically, both depression and alcohol use disorder involve alterations of the brain’s neurotransmitter systems, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play key roles in regulating mood and reward pathways. Genetics may also contribute to the co-occurrence of these conditions.

Impaired Judgment and Impulsivity 

Conversely, excessive alcohol consumption can impair judgment and increase impulsivity, making you more prone to engage in risky behaviors. Depression can worsen this impairment, further compromising decision-making abilities and magnifying alcohol use.

Moreover, both depression and alcohol use disorders are significant risk factors for suicidal behavior. The presence of both conditions simultaneously can heighten the risk, as alcohol can lower inhibitions and increase impulsivity, making you more susceptible to acting on suicidal thoughts [10]. 

Treating Alcoholism and Depression  

Addressing every struggle, including depression, alcohol use disorder, and any other mental illness concurrently, is essential for effective treatment. Integrated therapy approaches that target both alcohol and depression conditions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or medications for depression alongside therapy and support for alcohol use disorder, can be particularly beneficial.

Seeking professional help from mental health professionals or addiction specialists will help tremendously in managing the interconnected challenges of depression and alcohol use disorders and promoting long-term recovery and well-being. 

What to Do if You Need Help with Depression and Alcohol Use

If you’re grappling with co-occurring depression and alcohol use, remember that help is available. Taking steps toward getting support can make a significant difference in your journey toward recovery. Reaching out for help is a great first step that can lead you to receive the treatment for depression or substance abuse treatment you need. 

Reach Out for Support 

Reaching out to your friends and family for support can provide invaluable encouragement and guidance. Involving your loved ones in your recovery process can strengthen your support network and foster a sense of connection and belonging, both of which are essential aspects of the healing process. 

Mental Health and Addiction Treatment with Clear Behavioral Health

Enrollment in a residential treatment program, also known as inpatient rehab, like the one at Clear Behavioral Health, may be beneficial in addressing depression and substance abuse issues simultaneously. These programs provide intensive care and support in a structured environment, offering a combination of therapy, medical monitoring, and holistic interventions designed to address both depression and alcohol use disorders.

Our approach to mental health and addiction treatment includes a wide range of evidence-based and effective modalities. Throughout treatment, you can expect to engage in the following methods:

• Individual therapy allows you to tackle your way of thinking, personal beliefs, traumatic memories, and more.
• Group therapy is where you socialize, hear similar stories from different perspectives, see discourse in real time, and receive valuable peer support.
• Holistic therapy, including mindfulness practices, yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound baths, and more, helps heal and reinforce your mind-body connection.
• Case management to work through life challenges, ease financial troubles, and prepare you for the next step in your treatment journey.
• You’ll learn life skills like learning how to socialize when sober and develop healthy coping mechanisms you can use during and after treatment.

Following the completion of a residential program, transitioning to an outpatient rehab program can provide ongoing therapeutic engagement and support to help you maintain sobriety and manage depression while reintegrating back into your daily life. 

Treatment Program Features: Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal Management

Accessing professional help can assist you in assessing your situation comprehensively and give you access to guidance tailored to your individual recovery needs. If you’ve become physically dependent on alcohol, managed alcohol withdrawal and alcohol detox under medical supervision may be necessary to begin the treatment process.

This process should ideally take place in a supervised medical setting to ensure your safety and comfort. At Clear Behavioral Health, we have an alcohol detox rehab program in the Los Angeles, CA area that will help you with this transition.

Related: How Long Does It Take To Detox From Alcohol? Stages and Timeline

Medication Management

Depending on your individual needs, medication may also be recommended to help manage depression symptoms and alcohol withdrawal symptoms and support your recovery from alcohol use disorder. Adhere to your provider’s prescription recommendations and attend regular follow-up appointments for medication management. 

Community and Aftercare 

Clear Behavioral Health also offers continuing care to your treatment providers and recovery community with aftercare programs, allowing you to stay connected and supported in your journey toward sustained recovery and better health. 

Above all, remember that recovery is a journey, and your progress may not always be linear. Be patient with yourself, stay committed to your treatment plan, and lean on your support network for encouragement and guidance. With the right support, resources, and determination, it is possible to overcome depression and alcohol use disorders and embark on a path toward a fulfilling, sober life.

Related: Substance Abuse Recovery: What You Need to Know

There’s One Clear Choice for Your Co-Occurring Treatment and Recovery Needs 

If you’re ready to take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life, Clear Behavioral Health is here to support you every step of the way. With a wide array of treatment options and a full spectrum of care for mental health, addiction, and co-occurring concerns, our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized support tailored to your unique needs.

From your initial assessment with us through your journey into aftercare, we’ll be by your side, offering comprehensive services and compassionate guidance to help you achieve lasting recovery and wellness. 

Don’t wait another day to seek the help you deserve—reach out to Clear Behavioral Health today to learn more about our drug detox and alcohol detox for stabilization, residential drug rehab in a home-like setting throughout Los Angeles, CA, including Gardena and Redondo Beach, as well as our outpatient addiction treatment and dual diagnosis programs.

If depression and mental health are your main conditions, we also offer residential mental health treatment for more severe mental health issues and outpatient mental health programs for ongoing support. Our passionate team is always available to walk you through your treatment options and help you take the first step into a brighter tomorrow. 

 References:

1. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2022). Alcohol and the Brain: an Overview | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). Www.niaaa.nih.gov. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/alcohol-and-brain-overview on February 19, 2024
2. Torres, F. (2020, October). What is depression? American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression on February 19, 2024
3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2023, September). Depression. National Institute of Mental Health; National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression on February 19, 2024
4. O’Connor, E. A., Whitlock, E. P., Gaynes, B., & Beil, T. L. (2009, December). Table 1, Primary DSM-IV depression disorders, criteria for adults. Nih.gov; Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK36406/table/ch1.t1/ on February 19, 2024
5. Situational depression vs clinical depression: Difference and diagnosis. (n.d.). Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314698 on February 19, 2024
6. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2021, April). Alcohol Use Disorder: A Comparison Between DSM–IV and DSM–5 | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). Nih.gov. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-use-disorder-comparison-between-dsm on February 19, 2024
7. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2021). The Cycle of Alcohol Addiction. Www.niaaa.nih.gov. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/cycle-alcohol-addiction on February 19, 2024
8. Schuckit, M. A. (1996). Alcohol, Anxiety, and Depressive Disorders. Alcohol Health and Research World, 20(2), 81–85. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6876499/ on February 19, 2024
9. Nunes, E. V. (2023). Alcohol and the Etiology of Depression. American Journal of Psychiatry, 180(3), 179–181. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.20230004 on February 19, 2024
10. McHugh, R. K., & Weiss, R. D. (2019). Alcohol Use Disorder and Depressive Disorders. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews, 40(1). https://doi.org/10.35946/arcr.v40.1.01 on February 19, 2024