Here is more on are alcoholism and mental illness related?
Are Alcoholism and Mental Illness Related?
Alcoholism has long been linked to mental illness. These include, but are not limited to, depression, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety. Many people may not even realize they have these illnesses because they are apprehensive about seeking professional help, guidance, and care.
People who are experiencing major life stresses like a breakup or job loss commonly use the phrase “drowning in your sorrows”. A lot of people also drink beer or wine to relax after a long day of work. It is important to note that drinking every once in a while to calm your nerves is okay. However, it becomes a problem when your body begins to need alcohol just to get through the day, or the second a minor inconvenience pops up; this is a major, universal sign of alcohol abuse.
Nearly one third of people who have major depression suffer from alcoholism. But the question remains: which came first? During most circumstances, alcoholism will follow the mental illness. People who are suffering from depression tend to use alcohol as a form of self healing.
When someone who is suffering from depression drinks often, they will find that they will have more frequent and severe episodes of depression. The more frequent and severe they become, the more likely the user will begin to have thoughts of suicide. If the person is already on antidepressants and begins drinking heavily, it is likely that they will become ineffective.
Although in most cases depression leads to alcoholism, it is not uncommon that the reverse is true. Alcohol is a downer, which means that it’s a depressant. Drinking often can alter your mood and harm your brain, leading you to develop depression. Alcohol abuse also leads to poor decision-making that can have negative consequences to your daily life.
The first step in battling depression and alcoholism is acceptance and seeking help. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes and the more harm it will cause in the long run.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
