The Cycle of Depression and Alcohol
There is a complicated relationship between depression and alcohol use that affects many people across the United States. At Sanctuary Foundation, we understand that trying to overcome active addiction is more than looking at the addiction itself, as there are often co-morbid presentations. In this blog, we will discuss the connection between depression and alcohol, why that happens, and how we might be able to help.
If you or a loved one need an environment to help from alcohol addiction, consider the sober living homes offered at The Sanctuary Recovery Foundation. Contact us to learn more about our proven track record of helping people find a sober and fulfilling life.
Understanding the Depression-Alcohol Cycle
Alcohol and depression together will create a self-reinforcing cycle that feels almost impossible to escape. Many don’t know where the depression started and whether the alcohol is compounding it, helping it, or making it worse. The unfortunate truth is that depression will never lift if you continue to consume alcohol.
Factors in this cycle include:
- Alcohol’s role as a central nervous system depressant
- The temporary relief that leads to increased dependency
- Chemical changes in the brain affect mood regulation
- Growing isolation from support systems
The Science Behind Depression & Alcohol
Recent studies have found that there is a complicated relationship between depression and alcohol. The chemical balance in our brains plays a substantial role in that relationship. When someone is depressed, their brain’s natural levels of serotonin or dopamine–or feel-good chemicals–are too low or too high. This makes people feel terrible and want to do anything to relieve their suffering. Many will turn to alcohol as a result.
This whole process is what’s called a neurochemical cascade. Alcohol will make someone feel better and boost their feel-good chemicals, but in the end, it will work as a central nervous system depressant, making your brain produce even less serotonin, etc. Which, of course, will lead to deepening depression, the desire to drink alcohol to relieve that depression, and then a worsened mental health state.
The Two-Week Threshold
Some clinical studies show that people who stay sober for two weeks will see marked improvements in withdrawals. At the two-week mark, the brain begins to heal and restore chemical balance, and emotional effects will continue to improve over time. What’s more, certain treatments (when combined with sobriety) can improve mood further. When someone with an addiction receives support for their depression and alcohol use, they have a higher chance of recovery, up to 60%.
Sanctuary Recovery believes in a multifaceted approach. We offer coaching, a safe support group, and a place to remain sober. We can also share other resources that can help you overcome the depression vs. alcohol cycle.
Next Steps for Your Recovery Journey
If you’re ready to reach out for help, then we are ready to support you. Sanctuary Recovery Foundation offers:
- A Sober Living Home
- SCARR-certified recovery residences
- Experienced peer support
- Structured twelve-step programming
- Supportive community environment
You can break free from the cycle of alcohol and addiction. There is hope. Our Charleston and Mount Pleasant homes provide the support and structure you need to feel whole again. Contact us to find out more.
