Alcoholism and depression are independent mental health issues, but often the two go hand-in-hand. Experiencing either on its own requires a commitment to treatment, but getting through the two together can be especially challenging. Luckily, individuals can overcome these illnesses and restore their quality of life. Discover the complex relationship between these two conditions and how they’re treated below. 

The Connection Between Alcohol & Depression

Alcohol Use for Depression Relief

Nearly one-third of people with alcohol dependence also have a mood disorder such as depression. This is largely because individuals experiencing mental health issues will turn to alcohol to relieve their symptoms. While you might think that a few drinks can alleviate stress, alcohol can actually exacerbate symptoms.

The Cycle of Worsening Symptoms

Drinking while depressed worsens the condition’s symptoms, often leading to feelings of guilt, helplessness, pessimism, and irritability. Alcohol can worsen the physical symptoms of depression as well, including difficulty sleeping, body cramps, and a lack of appetite. It also increases the risk of suicide. Thus, drinking while depressed often spurs a cycle in which alcohol makes the individual feel worse, but they keep turning to alcohol to relieve their worsening symptoms.  

Similarities Between the Two

While depression typically comes first, a reliance on alcohol could lead to the condition over time. Regardless of which develops first, however, the two are closely related; both are influenced by genetics, family history, biochemistry, and environmental factors. Luckily, the co-occurring conditions can be treated successfully with simultaneous care by a mental health professional.

Treatment Options for Both 

The first step in treating alcohol addiction is to detoxify from alcohol use safely. This should be performed under the care of medical professionals to monitor for serious side effects of withdrawal. Once detoxed, a mental health specialist can evaluate the individual’s depression symptoms. The condition might lift significantly if symptoms were largely induced by drinking. If they linger, however, a counselor can help them work through therapy for both the addiction and the depression simultaneously.

When individuals in Winona County, MN, need help for addiction, depression, or other mental health disorders, they turn to Winona Counseling Clinic. These compassionate professionals have been helping locals overcome some of life’s most difficult challenges since 1987. Learn more about their treatments by visiting the clinic online or call (507) 454-3900 to schedule an appointment.