The Relationship Between Alcohol and Depression
The Relationship Between Alcohol and Depression
Many agree that there's a link between alcohol and depression. Read this guide on the link between alcohol and addiction along with how to manage it.
Keyword(s): Alcohol and Depression
Some individuals can't seem to shake the feeling of being down, and even alcohol can't help them to overcome it.
The reality is, research shows that 4.7% of adults struggle with the feeling of depression regularly.
Many agree that there's a link between alcohol and depression. Here's a rundown on the link between the two and how people can manage their alcohol addiction.
Let's get started.
Depression: What Is It?
It's not uncommon to have some days when you feel a little low. However, these feelings do not go away for some individuals. Instead, they become worse and began to disrupt their daily lives.
Note that depression is not the same as anxiety. When people feel anxious, they feel worried or fearful about what may happen. In addition, they might struggle to concentrate or have panic attacks.
Still, anxiety and depression can go together sometimes. That's because worrying constantly and feeling anxious can also make a person feel low.
Depression can also have several other triggers, ranging from divorce to bereavement, and unemployment. Relationship issues and even drinking alcohol can also be triggers for depression.
Alcohol and Depression
The reason why alcohol can trigger depression is that it is a drug called a depressant. This type of drug alters the balance of the brain's chemicals.
If a woman consumes more than three drinks a day, and if a man consumes more than four drinks a day, this is considered to be heavy drinking. This puts a person at a higher risk of experiencing depression.
Depression Symptoms
Symptoms of depression stemming from alcohol use include the following:
- Disturbed sleep
- Lowered sex drive
- Low energy
- Decreased or increased weight
You might also experience a change in your appetite if you suffer from depression.
Getting Help from Alcoholics Anonymous
People who are struggling with alcohol addiction and depression can receive the support they need to quit drinking and alleviate their depression at Alcoholics Anonymous.
The program doesn't explicitly focus on depression, but its social fellowship and 12 steps are aimed at supporting individuals' sense of self and overall well-being.
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are tailored to people of all races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, incomes, and professions. During these meetings, attendees can learn about recovery, hear other people's recovery stories, and share their situations and journeys.
How We Can Help Those Involved in Alcoholics Anonymous
Because alcohol happens to be a depressant, it can trigger the feeling of being depressed. The major symptoms of depression include weight changes and low energy. Fortunately, alcohol therapy through Alcoholics Anonymous can help people to successfully address their addiction to alcohol and depression.
At The Token Shop, we offer AA coins to sober members of the Alcoholics Anonymous community. These coins, which range from aluminum to bronze and plastic coins, are the perfect way to welcome newcomers to your group.
Get in touch with us to learn more about our coins, and order today!