Alcohol and Depression Strong Co-occurring Connection

What is Depression?

For example, abusing alcohol spends a substantial amount of time drinking may also hide an underlying genetic predisposition to depression. At times, depression can lead a person to “self-medicate” by drinking alcohol to feel better. And drinking alcohol, which depresses the central nervous system, can lead to more depressed feelings in those already suffering from depressive and other mood disorders. In the end, it creates a vicious cycle.

What is Alcoholism?

Not everyone who struggles with alcohol abuse is addicted to it, but it can be helpful to understand warning signs and symptoms that put you at risk of developing an AUD. Alcoholism is when a person can no longer control alcohol use, compulsively abusing it despite its negative ramifications, and experiences emotional distress when not drinking.

AUD is diagnosed based on individual meeting criteria outlined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To be diagnosed with AUD, a person must meet at least 2 of the following criteria within 12 months [4].

Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder (Alcoholism)

Alcohol use disorder (AUD), commonly known as alcoholism, occurs when alcohol consumption becomes so uncontrollable that it negatively affects essential aspects of your life. Alcoholism can cause damage to relationships, job prospects, finances, and physical and mental health.

Physical effects of long-term alcohol abuse include:

Alcohol’s depressant nature hampers the pleasure centers of your brain, which can eventually lead to chronic mood issues.

Step 1: Learn About Alcoholism

Without fully understanding alcohol use disorder, it can be hard to talk about alcoholism with your loved one who’s struggling.

Step 2: Research Alcohol Treatment Facilities

The type of treatment that will be most suitable for your loved one may be determined by several individual factors such as previous attempts to quit, current alcohol use and corresponding level of physical alcohol dependence, any co-occurring medical and mental health conditions, and any other substance use.

Step 3: Choose a Time to Talk 

Committing to getting sober and seeking treatment for alcoholism takes courage. Yet, often, those who need help with a drinking problem may not immediately be receptive to discussing treatment or admitting that they have a problem. Because of this, it may take a few conversations before they are willing to discuss treatment.

Step 4: Check Your Addiction Treatment Insurance 

If they’re ready to seek treatment, you may want to start thinking about how you will cover the cost of rehab. The cost of a treatment program for alcoholism[5] can vary widely, depending on the type of program and your insurance coverage. Because treatment costs can differ, you want to ensure the program you enroll your loved one in will work.

Alcohol and Depression Treatment

Treatment for co-occurring alcohol and depression can be challenging, but integrated approaches that address both disorders can be practical. Studies have shown that treating both alcohol and depression results in better outcomes for patients who did not also receive treatment for depression. An integrated approach focuses on both disorders within the same sessions or interactions and uses specific therapeutic techniques and strategies within a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan.

Effective treatment for alcoholism[6] and co-occurring depression may include a mix of therapies, including private. Group counseling, behavioral therapies, medications to ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms or treat symptoms of depression, and long-term aftercare planning to help maintain sobriety[2] Before entering an inpatient or outpatient setting, a person seeking rehab treatment will need to go through a detox phase. Because detoxing from alcohol can be uncomfortable—or life-threatening for those who’ve developed a severe physical dependence—a medically monitored detox setting is recommended.

How to Seek Treatment for Alcohol and Depression

If you’re ready to seek treatment for alcohol and depression, We Level Up can help. We Level Up Treatment Center provides world-class care with round-the-clock medical professionals available to help you cope. In addition, we work as an integrated team providing information about the connection between alcohol and depression, that co-occurring diagnosis, and other aspects of treatment. Make this your opportunity to reclaim your life. Call today to speak with one of our treatment specialists. Our specialists know what you are going through and will answer any of your questions.

We Level Up treatment center can help with inpatient therapy programs exclusively. Depending on the extent of secondary behavioral disorders such as alcohol and depression, we can first help assess your condition and guide you to suitable treatment options. We do not provide outpatient and PHP services at this time. Call to learn more.

Your call is private and confidential, and there is never any obligation.