When two mental and behavioral health disorders overlap, professionals refer to it as a dual diagnosis. Co-occurring alcoholism and depression is one of the most challenging dual diagnoses to treat successfully, but Serene Behavioral Health’s clinicians recognize how frequently these conditions intersect and create custom treatment plans for our clients.

The Connection Between Alcoholism and Depression

While major depressive disorder may not directly cause addiction or vice versa, the relationship between these two illnesses has a complex, bidirectional influence.

• Coping mechanisms: Alcohol is easy to find and has widespread social acceptance, leading some people to self-medicate. While drinking may temporarily numb feelings of sadness and hopelessness, it will ultimately worsen your depression due to its effects on brain chemistry.
• Exacerbation of symptoms: Alcohol magnifies depression symptoms, leading to increased lethargy, sadness or emotional instability. Occasional social drinking can quickly progress into a habit you rely on as your tolerance builds.
• Progressive deterioration: When your mental and behavioral health worsen, it will create a vicious cycle where each condition perpetuates and worsens the other. At this point, your likelihood of further substance abuse or risky behaviors such as compulsive gambling can sharply increase.

What You Can Do for Your Dual Diagnosis

Depressive and substance use disorders are challenging enough when taken separately, but the overlapping difficulties caused by a dual diagnosis complicate treatment. For instance, alcohol might mask your depressive symptoms, and depression may drive you further into substance abuse as these conditions feed other.

Admitting when you need help is crucial for clearing the path to recovery.

1. Seek Integrated Treatment

Effective dual-diagnosis treatment involves a comprehensive approach that addresses depression and alcoholism together, instead of treating them as separate issues. Integrated treatment plans typically include a combination of medication management, psychotherapy and support groups.

• Medication management: After diagnosing you with co-occurring depression and alcoholism, a medical professional may prescribe you medications to manage your symptoms and help you heal.
• Psychotherapy: Techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy teach you to identify negative thought patterns and behaviors and modify them.
• Support networks: Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous can provide accountability and help you meet new people.

2. Modify Your Lifestyle

Healthy habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet and adequate sleep are crucial for managing co-occurring depression and alcoholism.

3. Continuously Monitor and Adjust

Recovering from a dual diagnosis is an ongoing process that may require modifications to your tailored treatment plan as you progress. Regular consultations with mental health and addiction specialists will help you understand the underlying conditions detracting from your mental and behavioral wellness.

Find Your Way to Freedom

A dual diagnosis of alcoholism and depression requires a targeted program with a high level of personalized care. That’s why Serene Behavioral Health offers four levels of care for substance abuse and mental health treatment. Our therapeutic expertise puts help within reach for more clients. Reach out to us today to request more information and verity your insurance.