Helping Someone With Depression And Alcoholism: Strategies For Support

Alcoholism and depression are two conditions that often occur together and can have a detrimental impact on a person's life. It can be challenging to deal with a loved one suffering from these co-occurring disorders, and it is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of both conditions. Understanding the complex relationship between depression and alcoholism is crucial in helping someone seek treatment and recovery. Treatment for co-occurring depression and alcoholism typically involves a combination of psychological and pharmacological interventions, such as therapy and medication. Support groups and therapy sessions can help individuals identify the root causes of their alcohol use, repair relationships, and develop strategies to manage their drinking and mental health. It is also important to remember that setbacks and relapses may occur during recovery, but they do not signify failure.

Recognise the symptoms of depression and alcoholism

Recognising the symptoms of depression and alcoholism is a crucial step towards seeking help and support. Depression can manifest in various ways, and it's important to understand that symptoms can vary widely between individuals. Here are some key signs to look out for:

Symptoms of Depression

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities.
• Disturbed sleep patterns, such as difficulty falling asleep or waking up very early.
• Loss of interest in social activities and withdrawal from friends and family.
• Changes in appetite and weight.
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or self-harmful thoughts.
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
• In severe cases, there may be symptoms of psychosis or suicidal thoughts.

It's important to note that depression can develop gradually, making it challenging to notice something is wrong. Friends and family members often play a crucial role in recognising these signs and suggesting professional help.

Symptoms of Alcoholism (Alcohol Use Disorder)

• Craving alcoholic beverages and experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.
• Inability to stop drinking despite negative consequences on personal relationships, work, and health.
• Drinking larger amounts or for longer periods than intended.
• Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, consuming, or recovering from the effects of alcohol.
• Neglecting social activities, work obligations, or recreational pursuits due to alcohol use.
• Continuing to drink despite having a medical condition or mental disorder exacerbated by alcohol consumption.

Alcohol use disorder can range from mild to severe and often requires professional treatment, including medication and behavioural therapy. Recognising these symptoms is the first step towards seeking help and improving one's overall well-being.

Understand the link between depression and alcoholism

Alcohol abuse and addiction, or "alcohol use disorder" (AUD), can affect not just the person drinking but also their families and loved ones. It can be challenging to deal with a loved one's alcohol abuse, especially when coupled with depression. Understanding the link between depression and alcoholism is a critical preliminary step to helping someone get treatment.

Depression and alcohol use disorder are often concurrent conditions, with 63% of people with AUD experiencing major depressive disorder. A study from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism also found that people with an AUD were 2.3 times more likely to have experienced symptoms of depression over the previous year. There seems to be a bidirectional relationship between AUD and depressive disorders, with each disorder increasing the risk for the other and worsening its severity.

Alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system (CNS) and the brain's functionality. It can produce feelings of euphoria and excitement, but these feelings are fleeting. As a highly addictive substance, alcohol can quickly lead to dependence when used to escape psychological turmoil. The sedative effects of drinking can temporarily numb the symptoms of a mood disorder, leading to self-medication and eventual alcohol abuse and alcoholism.

However, excessive alcohol abuse can also cause or worsen depression. Chronic alcohol misuse can result in a potentially permanent disruption of one's neurotransmitter balance, leading to or exacerbating depressive symptoms. Additionally, alcohol use can affect how antidepressants work, impacting depression treatment. Treating alcoholism may relieve depression in some cases, but alleviating depression does not resolve the AUD.

It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of both depression and AUD to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Consulting with an interventionist or addiction specialist can be beneficial when dealing with a loved one's drinking and depression.

Seek professional help and treatment

Depression and alcoholism are serious conditions that often occur together and require professional help and treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with these co-occurring disorders, it is important to recognize the symptoms and understand the risk factors and causes. Here are some steps you can take to seek professional help and treatment:

Recognize the Symptoms

The first step is to educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of depression and alcoholism. This will help you identify if your loved one is struggling with these disorders. Symptoms of depression may include prolonged feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), may involve symptoms such as neglecting responsibilities, binge drinking, lying about alcohol consumption, blackouts, relationship problems, and using alcohol to cope with emotions.

Encourage Professional Assessment

Encourage the person to seek help from a qualified mental health professional, such as a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. These professionals can perform a thorough assessment and evaluation to determine if the individual is suffering from depression and alcoholism. The assessment typically involves discussing symptoms, thoughts, feelings, behaviors, medical history, family history, and any previous treatment. They may use diagnostic tools such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to aid in making a diagnosis.

Explore Treatment Options

Once a diagnosis is established, explore treatment options with the help of the mental health professional. Effective treatment for co-occurring depression and alcoholism often involves a combination of psychological and pharmacological interventions. Individual, group, and family therapy sessions can help individuals identify and address the underlying causes of their depression and alcohol misuse, repair damaged relationships, and develop skills to reduce their drinking. Medication may also be prescribed to manage symptoms of depression and alcohol dependence.

Consider Specialized Programs

Look for specialized treatment programs that address co-occurring disorders, such as dual diagnosis rehab programs. These programs provide comprehensive care that targets the underlying causes of both conditions. They may combine evidence-based therapies, holistic treatments, and personalized care to support individuals in achieving lasting recovery from both depression and alcoholism. Residential treatment facilities, or "rehab," offer intensive treatment, including detox, therapy, and medication, in a safe and supportive environment.

Support During Treatment

Offer your support throughout the treatment process. You can suggest activities that don't involve alcohol, accompany them to doctor or counselor appointments, and encourage them to attend support groups or meetings. Understand that setbacks and relapses may occur during recovery, but don't blame yourself or the person struggling. Continue to encourage and support them as they recommit to overcoming their drinking problem and managing their depression.

Prepare for relapses

Relapses are a common part of the recovery process, and preparing for them can help you support your loved one effectively. Here are some ways to prepare for relapses when dealing with someone with depression and alcoholism:

Understand Relapses

Recognize that relapses are not signs of failure or weakness. Understand that relapses are often a feature of recovery from alcohol dependence, and they can provide an opportunity to learn more about triggers and improve in the future. Encourage your loved one to view relapses as setbacks rather than permanent defeats, reminding them of the progress they have made and the importance of each day of sobriety.

Identify Triggers

Work with your loved one to identify and understand their triggers. Help them plan how to avoid these triggers and develop strategies to cope with cravings and social pressures to drink. This may include finding distractions, such as calling someone, going for a walk, or riding out the urge.

Encourage Treatment and Support

Consult an interventionist or addiction specialist with experience in alcohol dependence and co-occurring mental illnesses. Have treatment options ready when confronting your loved one about your concerns. Support your loved one in seeking professional help, such as therapy or rehabilitation, to address the underlying causes of their alcohol use and repair damaged relationships.

Develop Coping Strategies

Encourage your loved one to develop positive coping strategies to replace old patterns. This may include setting short-term and long-term goals, both related and unrelated to alcohol use. Help them build a positive self-image, learn from their mistakes, and reframe their perspective on challenging situations.

Maintain a Support Network

Build a supportive network of friends, family, and medical professionals, such as a family doctor or therapist. Encourage your loved one to lean on this network during difficult times and maintain regular contact to prevent isolation.

Remember, recovery is a journey, and relapses are common. By preparing for potential setbacks, you can provide effective support and guidance to your loved one as they navigate their recovery process.

Support groups for friends and family

Dealing with a friend or family member's alcohol abuse and depression can be emotionally challenging. Support groups can provide a great support system as they are often made up of people who have "been there" and are working to heal and recover.

SAMHSA's National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), is a free, confidential, 24/7 service in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. They provide referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. You can also text your zip code to their HELP4U text messaging service to find help near you.

There are also support groups specifically for family members or children who are coping with a loved one's mental health, drug, or alcohol issues. These include:

• Al-Anon, a worldwide fellowship that provides a recovery program for families and friends of people addicted to alcohol.
• Alateen, a program geared toward adolescent members of families affected by alcoholism.
• Nar-Anon, a 12-step program for the family and friends of people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol.
• Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL), a Christian-run non-profit that provides support for parents who have children addicted to drugs or alcohol.
• Families Anonymous, a 12-step program designed for family members of people addicted to drugs or alcohol or related behavioral health conditions.
• Learn to Cope, a peer-led support network that offers education, resources, and support for family and friends who have loved ones affected by substance abuse.

Frequently asked questions