Alcohol consumption is a widely accepted social activity. So many of us do it even though we know that excessive drinking can lead to severe health problems. But have you ever stopped to think about how it affects our mental health? Research shows that alcohol abuse and mental health disorders often go hand-in-hand, and alcohol can worsen the symptoms of mental health conditions. However, you don’t have to drink excessively to experience the negative effects.
Alcohol and Depression
Studies have shown that alcohol abuse can lead to depression. Alcohol is a depressant, which means it slows down the central nervous system and can cause feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Overindulging in alcohol can lead to bad decisions or impulsive actions. When that happens, you’re likely to experience negative feelings such as guilt, shame, and sadness, all of which can lead to depression.
Additionally, if you’re already suffering from depression, alcohol can worsen your symptoms, making it more challenging to manage the condition. In fact, people with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) are three times more likely to develop depression than those without the disorder. Heavy alcohol use can also make antidepressants less effective.
Alcohol and Anxiety
While alcohol can initially reduce anxiety symptoms, the long-term effects can be detrimental to mental health. Regular alcohol consumption can lead to increased anxiety levels, making it harder to manage anxiety symptoms. This is because the body’s natural response to alcohol is to increase cortisol levels, which can trigger anxiety symptoms.
Continuing to rely on alcohol to relieve symptoms can cause your body to rely on it and lead to withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink, which can also increase anxiety levels. Furthermore, people with anxiety disorders are more likely to develop AUD, creating a vicious cycle of alcohol use and anxiety.
Alcohol and Suicide
Alcohol abuse is a significant risk factor for suicide. In fact, people with AUD are up to 10 times more likely to die by suicide than those without the disorder, and the risk for heavy drinkers is 5 times that of social drinkers. Alcohol can impair judgment and increase impulsivity, leading to risky behaviors that can increase the risk of suicide. Additionally, alcohol interferes with the body’s serotonin levels, which can affect mood and lead to suicidal behavior. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or mental health issues, it’s crucial to seek help.
Alcohol and Your Mental Health
Alcohol abuse and mental health disorders often create a vicious cycle and it’s essential to recognize the link between the two. Seeking help for AUD and mental health conditions can improve overall well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or mental health issues, consider seeking support through my signature coaching program. Together, we can find freedom from alcohol and improve your life.
For more details, check out these resources:
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: Alcohol Facts and Statistics. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/cbhsq-reports/NSDUHNationalFindingsReport2018/NSDUHNationalFindingsReport2018.pdf
National Institute of Mental Health: Suicide. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide