The link between alcoholism and depression isn’t that shocking. Most people, after all, are aware that alcohol is a depressant. That, of course, means that symptoms like depression are more easily and likely to be experienced. The link between depression and alcoholism goes much deeper than the mere fact that alcohol is a depressant.
Studies have proven that those who struggle with depression may also be more inclined to drink, and as one Healthline article stated, “alcohol use disorder and depression are two conditions that often occur together.” What that means is that one can feed the other, or they can both feed off of each other! It is a vicious cycle, and like any addiction, it demands getting help.
Getting Help for Alcoholism and Depression
The link between alcoholism and depression is more than a cycle of sadness. It is also dangerous. One of the greatest dangers with the link between depression and alcoholism is becoming trapped and feeling isolated. Addiction, by its very nature, tries to isolate us. Depression, by suppressing hope and making us feel tired, makes it even more difficult to reach for help. And yes, when we reach for that drink to numb the sadness of depression, we become sleepier. The cycle is real, it can imprison and isolate, and at its crescendo, it can take everything.
That doesn’t mean, though, that there isn’t help and hope available, because there is. The good news is that everyday people who battle with alcoholism and depression find help, and every day someone somewhere, overcomes the battle and beats alcoholism every day.
Find Help and Hope at Treatment Centers for Alcoholism
There is also more good news for those struggling with alcoholism and depression because treating one also will mean treating the other. Part of the value of going to a quality alcohol or addiction treatment center is getting help from professionals who understand the link, and who can help. From diagnosis to treatment, and even help with learning how to live without reliance on alcohol, a quality treatment center offers the support, experience, professional resources, and tools you need.
Professional and experienced counselors and therapists at good treatment centers will recognize and be able to help clients address both the issue of addiction and depression. With holistic techniques and individualized treatment and counseling, healing the mind, body, and spirit works to heal addiction and depression. The first step, along with the aforementioned weight of depression and alcoholism, is often the hardest to take. Knowing where to turn and who to turn to in those moments of clarity or strength could make all the difference.
Where to Go for Help and Treatment
Are you struggling with an addiction? Do you think you might be suffering from depression too? No, you aren’t paranoid, and there is a good chance you could be fighting two battles at the same time. Are you often feeling tired, drained, or hopeless? Do you drink to numb those feelings, to fight the hopelessness or worse yet, sleep it away? You aren’t alone, and there is help for alcohol addiction and depression.
If this is you or if you know someone fighting addiction, then help is closer than you think. Addiction and depression don’t have to control your life, and you can do something about it. If you are ready to end the vicious cycle of addiction and get help, then we are here for you. Call Sagebrush Treatment Centers at 866.488.1156 and let us help. Stop fighting addiction alone, and there are answers for dealing with depression. Find the help and the hope you need today, and begin living the life you deserve tomorrow.
