Some people say they drink alcohol to “bottle off the sadness” after a bad breakup, job loss, or other major life stressors. And yes, since alcohol makes you sleepy, a few beers or a glass of wine may seem to relax you and reduce your anxiety.
It’s one thing to have a drink once in a while when you’re stressed or sad. But if you find yourself needing that cocktail every time a problem arises, it could be a sign of alcohol use disorder.
DOES DEPRESSION DRIVE YOU TO DRINK?
About one-third of people with major depression also have an alcohol problem. Depression often comes first. Research shows that depressed children are more likely to have alcohol-related problems a few years later. Additionally, teens who experience major depression are twice as likely to start drinking as those who don’t.
Women with a history of depression are more than twice as likely to start drinking. Experts say women are more likely than men to overdo it when they’re feeling down.
Drinking makes depression worse. People who are depressed and drink heavily have more frequent and severe episodes of depression and are more likely to consider suicide. Excessive alcohol use can also make antidepressants less effective.
CAN DRINKING TOO MUCH GIVE YOU DEPRESSION?
Alcohol is a depressant. This means that any amount you drink can make you more likely to get the blues. Drinking too much can damage your brain and lead to depression.
When you drink too much, you become more likely to make bad decisions or act on impulse. As a result, you could drain your bank account, lose your job, or ruin a relationship. When this happens, you’re more likely to feel bad, especially if your genes predispose to depression.
Women with a history of depression are more than twice as likely to engage in heavy drinking. Experts say women are more likely than men to overdo it when they’re feeling down.
Drinking makes depression worse. People who are depressed and drink heavily have more frequent and severe episodes of depression and are more likely to consider suicide. Excessive alcohol use can also make antidepressants less effective.
ARE THE GUILTY GENES OR LIFESTYLE?
It’s not always clear whether depression is driving you to drink or vice versa. Studies of twins have shown that the same things that lead to heavy drinking in families also increase the likelihood of depression.
Researchers have found at least one common gene. This gene is related to brain functions such as memory and attention. Variations in this gene can put people at risk for both alcohol abuse and depression.
The home and social environment also play a role. Children who are abused or grow up in poverty appear to be more likely to develop both conditions.
ALCOHOL AND DEPRESSION: WHAT TO DO
Unless you have a health problem that prevents you from drinking, having an occasional glass of wine or beer for social reasons probably won’t hurt. But if you turn to alcohol to get through the day, or if it causes problems in your relationships, work, social life, or the way you think and feel, you have a more serious problem.
Alcohol abuse and depression are both serious problems that you should not ignore. If you think you have a problem with either, talk to your doctor or therapist. There are many options when it comes to medications that treat depression, and there are also medications that reduce alcohol cravings and counteract the urge to drink excessively. Your doctor will likely treat both conditions together.