What is alcohol-induced depression
Alcohol disease affects both the body and the psyche of the addicted person. One of the most commonly encountered symptoms is alcohol-induced depression. Depressive states can be a result of addiction and also cause it, but this is a less common variant of this disorder. Primary alcoholism, which leads to secondary depression, is observed in 9 out of 10 patients. Only in 10% of addicted individuals can it be noticed that the addiction was caused by depression, not the other way around.When do we talk about alcohol-induced depression?
- depression develops before addiction – the cause of alcohol disease is a depressive state, drinking alcohol seemingly helps alleviate symptoms, but in reality deepens the condition and leads to addiction.
- mental disorders occur as a result of alcohol dependence – alcohol-induced depression is one of the symptoms of alcoholism, the alcoholic begins to understand the gravity of the situation, which causes mood disorders and even suicidal thoughts.
- alcohol-induced depression is a consequence of withdrawal syndrome – depressive states, mood decline, and general anxiety occur when an alcoholic suddenly stops drinking, this is a major change for the body and the patient's mental health suffers, usually after 3 weeks the symptoms pass and depression treatment is not necessary.
- depression during abstinence period – disorders can lead the addicted person to want to return to abusing ethyl alcohol, in such a situation psychotherapy is necessary so that the patient does not fall into addiction.
Like its effect on anxiety, alcohol can not only deepen depression but also cause it. In fact, people who drink heavily are more likely to suffer from depression, and alcohol dependence is about three times more likely among people with depression. When you drink too much, you are more likely to make bad decisions or act impulsively. As a result, you may empty your bank account, lose your job, or ruin a relationship. When this happens, you are more likely to feel depressed.rush of happiness, the next day you will have a deficiency of these same chemicals, which can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or the appearance of symptoms of alcohol-induced depression.
Complication of alcohol disease
Intensive and regular drinking is associated with symptoms of depression, although it can be difficult to separate cause and effect when these two things go hand in hand. It is known that alcohol affects several neurochemical systems that are important in mood regulation. After studying the sequence, it is clearly visible that people after drinking can experience depression. It has also often been shown that limiting or stopping drinking can improve mood. Medications prescribed for depression should not be mixed with alcohol. Some of the commonly prescribed antidepressants tend to increase the risk of relapse into heavy drinking in people who are trying to quit drinking or abstain from alcohol consumption, so antidepressants should only be taken with great caution.Symptoms of alcohol-induced depression
- general pessimism, mood decline, low self-esteem, lack of self-confidence
- lack of appetite
- lack of enjoyment in life and feeling of dejection
- lack of sense of purpose in life
- constant feeling of guilt
- anxiety disorders and mental disorders
- inability to cope with stress
- poor well-being – mental and physical exhaustion
- problems with memory, concentration, and knowledge acquisition
- difficulties in the sexual sphere
- self-destruction, social withdrawal, resignation from daily duties and hobbies
- dangerous and aggressive behavior after alcohol
- struggle with suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts.
- sleep disorders (insomnia after alcohol)
- alcoholic hallucinosis
How long does alcohol-induced depression last?
In the case of this mental disorder, it is difficult to assess exactly how long it lasts. There is no upper limit. If alcohol-induced depression is a symptom of withdrawal syndrome, it usually lasts no less than 2 weeks. Diagnosing the condition also takes time. Treatment is effective not only through psychotherapy and pharmacology, but also through the patient's willingness to make changes. If the symptoms of depression are caused by alcohol dependence, stopping drinking should bring significant improvement. In fact, people experiencing depressive states find that complete abstinence from alcohol for just 4 weeks will make a noticeable difference in their well-being.Treatment of alcohol-induced depression
There are many ways to treat alcohol-induced depression. For each patient, one method or another will be more or less effective. For the treatment of alcohol-induced depression to be effective, it takes time and the patient's willingness. Results are not always visible immediately. For people who reach for alcohol, the support of loved ones is also important.- psychotherapy – its duration and frequency depend on the specific case.
- pharmacological treatment – a psychiatrist may, but does not have to, recommend pharmacotherapy
- treatment of alcoholism – without this, symptoms of depression after alcohol will not disappear.
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