To imagine that depression and addiction are two separate afflictions with no connection whatsoever is a fallacy. These two maladies can sometimes be experienced simultaneously; in fact, over half of those who seek treatment for one will also be seeking help for the other as well.
You may be experiencing symptoms of depression along with your addiction, but it’s essential to seek help nonetheless. In this piece, we will explore the ways in which depression can manifest itself and provide resources for its treatment; let’s begin!
1. In Recovery
Being in recovery is an essential milestone that must be acknowledged and celebrated.
The word ‘recovery’ conveys a sense of salvation, freedom, and emancipation. Although this term itself suggests the process of achieving recovery can occur without assistance; it’s ultimately beneficial to recognize your efforts along this path!
For many individuals, obstacles arise when they begin their journey toward sobriety and embark upon the path back towards wellness. What was once a simple decision of quitting any substance(s) quickly becomes complicated as life unfolds.
Alcoholics Anonymous has proven to be an effective method for overcoming alcohol addiction – however, there are many other choices available as well. Individuals can take advantage of specialized treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or motivational interviewing (MI), among others; although these modalities may vary from person to person in terms of effectiveness and efficacy – all offer potentials for success!
You recognize what you need to do to obtain lasting sobriety. Don’t waste another day trying to deny it!
A Person With Depression is More Vulnerable To Relapse
Depressive disorders are associated with high rates of relapse. Even those who have accessed treatment and been symptom-free in a long period can still be susceptible to future episodes if they do not maintain stability in life.
This may indicate that the former sufferer of depression is more likely to succumb to drug abuse than someone who hasn’t experienced any symptoms at all. Though some individuals with mild depression also experience anxiety, it tends not to be as pronounced; nonetheless-that does not detract from its potential for creating disarray within one’s lifestyle by instigating panic attacks or making them feel anxious about their situation -which can then potentially result in relapses!
2. Depression Can Be Triggered By Substance Abuse
Like any other drug, substances can induce a sense of euphoria. Similarly, depression is a result not merely of a deficiency of happy neurotransmitters within the brain; it is also caused by excessive amounts of these same compounds being released into circulation.
Alcohol abuse and dependence are among the most common of all addictions. Around 7% of adults in the United States suffer from alcohol problems, which equates to nearly 20 million individuals who struggle with this perilous vice! This statistic alone speaks volumes about the link between alcohol abuse and mental health issues for those afflicted – so much so that experts have gone as far as suggesting that alcoholics are more likely to experience anxiety and mood disorders than their abstinent counterparts!
3. In Recovery
Depression can make it more challenging to sustain sobriety, so if you’re seeking help for any other addictions or indulging in unhealthy habits; seek assistance from professionals who can offer guidance and support.
Depression is typically treated with psychotherapy and medication. While those treatments may have varying effectiveness, they can both provide alleviation when used judiciously and provide a means by which one’s condition can be managed effectively – allowing one to lead an enriched existence free of torment!
Fortunately, research has demonstrated that depression does not always necessitate the use of multiple medications. In fact, antidepressants may prove quite beneficial when combined with other medications.
Those With Depression who have been Faced with Relapse are at a Higher Risk to be Recurrently Abusers
Depression and addiction commonly occur in tandem; however, there exists a strong connection between depression and relapse. This was recently demonstrated through research that targeted individuals who experienced both conditions.
In this study conducted by investigators at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, they assessed the rates of depressive symptoms among a cohort of 798 people with alcohol dependence. The team also evaluated their levels of craving as well as their behavioral patterns – such as any past-year illicit drug use or their tendency toward committing crimes. Additionally, they inquired if any had ever experienced an episode of heavy drinking; this question would provide insight into possible signs indicating one may be prone to relapse. Finally – all participants underwent assessment for signs of substance abuse.
Unsurprisingly, those individuals who struggled with depression were more likely to report having relapsed than those without depression. Furthermore, it was revealed that those who had experienced multiple episodes of alcoholism were significantly more likely than those who hadn’t had it happen before.
4. In Recovery
Have you ever found yourself at a loss for words upon awakening after sleeping off a night of revelry? If so, then it is testament to just how potent the effects of alcohol can be on one’s mental state.
During my alcohol addictions treatment, I awoke not knowing where I was or even who I was – and when I came to my senses, it dawned on me that this sobering realization had become routine!
For me personally, the most challenging aspect of recovery was adjusting to my new lifestyle without having any access to alcohol. Not only did this require some effort; but also acquiring reliable transportation in order to make daily commutes while abstaining from alcohol proved quite difficult at times!
Those Who Develop Depression while they are Drug/Alcohol Abusers are More Likely to Need Other Prescription Drugs While in Treatment
For those individuals who are suffering from depression, it could be indicative of having a more complex issue at hand. In conjunction with recent research studies conducted by scientists in the field of psychiatry, we have discovered that people with depression often also take medications such as antidepressants or sleep aids for alleviation of their symptoms.
Indeed, this is a noteworthy discovery. Indeed, due to its prevalence among individuals seeking treatment for addiction and depression, it has become apparent that requiring assistance from within their medication regimen may be a necessity. Unsurprisingly however; users of prescription drugs are 28% more likely than nonusers to end up seeking treatment – a grim indication of an escalating addiction!
5. There is a Link Between Depression and Alcoholism
At one point in your life, you may well have become acquainted with alcoholism. If you did so at an early age alongside learning about depression and addiction -– chances are they were two acquired tastes that left a memorable impression!
Alcohol abuse can cause depression. In fact, other studies have revealed that this link exists among people of all ages, including teenagers and senior citizens. They also found that high rates of depression are typically associated with consuming alcohol (even when those who suffer from it haven’t been drinking).
Studies have shown that individuals with a history of depression are more likely to be susceptible towards developing alcoholism. Alcohol use disorders represent the most prevalent form of depressive symptomology; moreover, major depressive disorder is frequently accompanied by its counterpart as well.
6. Antidepressants for Depression for Those who Have Addictions
In the case of depression afflicting those who are addicted, antidepressants can offer relief from feelings of hopelessness. This may induce a sense of optimism and ultimately facilitate recovery.
If you have been diagnosed with depression and would like to explore treatment options that include medication, it is worth considering whether this may be an ideal solution for you. The utility of antidepressants in alleviating symptoms associated with addiction should not be overlooked; these drugs can prove advantageous at any time during an endeavour toward sobriety!
Conclusion
The Dynamic Duo of Depression and Addiction can wreak havoc upon your life if not addressed. But, with the right resources and strategies in place, these twin afflictions can be tamed – bringing about both mental and physical equilibrium for long-term well-being.