Many people likely believe that alcohol offers an improved sense of mood when they feel depressed. Have you heard someone say that alcohol improves their mood? Perhaps you have stated that alcohol helps you feel better after a bad day, or after an event such as a relationship breakup, or after losing your job. The truth is that alcohol is a depressant. When you drink alcohol and already experience depression, there are significant, even potentially deadly risks to alcohol and depression. The Ranch treatment staff have the expertise to perform a comprehensive assessment, determine your treatment needs, and to make sure that you receive the ideal treatment for your alcohol and depression symptoms. Learn how to get on the path to recovery from the potentially devastating effects of alcohol and depression.
Alcohol and Depression
When you experience alcoholism and depression together, this is called a dual diagnosis disorder. This disorder, also referred to as a co-occurring disorder, happens when a person has at least one mental health disorder, and at least one substance use disorder. It is possible to experience more than one mental health disorder or more than one substance use disorder at the same time.
Experiencing alcohol use disorder and depression is one example of a dual diagnosis disorder. It is often difficult or impossible to determine whether the alcoholism occurred first, or if the depression occurred first.
Several sources report the results of research and studies that prove the connection between alcohol use and depressive disorders. An article in the Journal of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholismpoints to survey results indicating that among people with alcohol use disorder, depressive disorders are the most common co-occurring psychiatric disorder. Similarly, a PsychCentralcontributor explains that between 30 and 50 percent of all people that have an alcohol use disorder also experience clinical depression.
You need not feel alone if you have both alcoholism and depression. The caring, professional team at The Ranch offers treatment for alcohol addiction, treatment for depression, and treatment for other mental health disorders, along with dual diagnosis disorders.
Alcohol and Depression Risk Factors
Some people experience co-occurring alcoholism and depression with no previous history of either disorder. There are certain risk factors associated with alcohol use and depression, including:
- Having a family history of alcoholism or depression
- Heavy drinking during adolescence or young adulthood
- Environmental stressors
- Depressed mood or significant loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities
- Recently stopping drinking can increase the risk of depression
- Experiencing feelings of worthlessness or thoughts of suicide
There are other risk factors associated with alcohol use disorder and depression, which vary from one person to person.
Treatment at The Ranch PA
There is treatment available for co-occurring alcohol use disorder and depression. When you seek treatment at a facility that treats alcohol addiction and depression, you likely have an excellent opportunity to get on the path to recovery.
An article submitted by a contributor at the Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience mentions the fact that taking a careful history is the first step when considering treatment. The Ranch PA provides clients with a comprehensive assessment. The treatment team guides you through your individualized treatment plan based on your specific treatment needs.
An integrated treatment plan, which treats both the alcohol use disorder and the depression at the same time, is likely the ideal treatment plan. You do not have to wait to receive treatment for one disorder until after completing treatment for the other condition.
Treatment varies, according to your needs, and may include:
- Medical detox before starting treatment
- Individual and group therapy
- Medication therapy
- Relaxation or art or music therapy
There are other possible therapies involved in individualized treatment plans. Some individuals receive residential treatment, while others receive outpatient treatment.
Aftercare planning is an important component of your treatment planning when you turn to The Ranch PA. Our team of treatment professionals has the experience, knowledge, and compassion to help you get back on track without experiencing the potentially devastating effects of alcohol and depression. Contact us today at 717.969.9126, and learn how to start your recovery today.
