Alcohol and depression are often conditions that occur together and when coexisting can make the other worse if not treated correctly. 

If you already have been diagnosed with depression, alcohol can worsen symptoms of mood disorders and depression may even cause people to begin drinking in large quantities in the first place.

The good news is that both conditions can be treated simultaneously – as one improves, symptoms of the other may improve too.

However, the process isn’t quick and easy and in some cases can be a lifelong commitment to improving your life, health and well-being in the long term.

How do alcohol and depression go hand in hand?

Mood disorders such as depression can cause feelings of sadness, loss, emptiness and anger. Those who have depression often lose interest in activities which once brought them joy, including hobbies and social events, and daily tasks may also even be a struggle to complete.

Individuals with an alcohol use disorder usually drink too much and too often and find it difficult to stop drinking once they begin too. If not treated, alcohol use disorder can become a struggle for the rest of the user’s life. 

When it comes to alcohol and depression, a lot of the time, alcohol is used as a form of self-medication. The burst of energy from alcohol can give some temporary relief from symptoms of depression including anxiety. 

However, there is also the flip side of that where people who frequently use alcohol find their feelings worsen and can actually drive further drinking.

It is known that alcohol and depression is more common in women where women are more likely to engage in binge drinking. 

Those who have also experienced previous trauma are also at risk of alcohol misuse and depression.

Symptoms of alcohol use and depression

Symptoms of Depression

• feeling worthless
• sadness
• fatigue
• loss of interest in hobbies and activities
• lack of energy to complete daily tasks
• difficulty concentrating
• guilt
• substance use
• suicidal thoughts

Symptoms of Alcohol Use

• drinking too much in any one episode
• drinking frequently, even daily
• continually craving alcohol
• sneaking alcohol so others won’t observe it
• continuing to drink despite negative consequences, both to physical health and personal relationships
• avoiding activities to drink
• continued drinking despite symptoms of depression or a mood disorder

What can cause depression and alcohol use disorder?

It’s not exactly clear what comes first and each person’s experience is different and depending on their conditions can increase the risk for the other. 

Some elements may contribute to one or both of these conditions which include:

Personality

Those with a “negative” outlook on life are believed to be more likely to develop either condition. The same goes for those who experience low self esteem or have difficulty with social situations could be more likely to develop depression or an alcohol use disorder.

Genetics

People who have a history of family members with either condition are believed to be at higher risk of developing in the future. Research suggests there is a genetic predisposition which may make you more likely to develop either condition.

Personal History

People who have had negative past experiences such as abuse, trauma and relationship problems are more likely to be depressed or misuse alcohol.

Do you need help?

Knowing when you need help can be difficult to determine. However, if you believe that you can relate to some of the above points it could be that you are in need of some additional help. Contact our friendly team today for a confidential chat about your situation and how we may be able to help you.