Co-morbid depression and alcohol dependence occur in a large number of adults. In fact, substance use disorders have been linked to having predicted major depressive disorder episodes in studies.
They are called co-morbid because they can occur together and the symptoms of each often alter and increase the symptoms of the other.
If you are struggling with depression and have noticed an increase in substance abuse or you notice your substance use increasing and causing you to feel more depressed, it is time to get help. At Starbridge Recovery our addiction treatment programs are designed specifically to treat individuals with comorbid alcohol and drug use disorders in combination with other mental illnesses.
Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Dependence
Alcohol dependence can happen to anyone. However, some individuals are more predisposed to developing alcohol dependence based on some factors like environment, genes, and lifestyle. While none of these independently mean that an individual will develop alcoholism, they do play a contributing factor in development.
If you are worried a loved one may be struggling with alcohol, you may notice the following emotional and behavioral changes:
- Changes in mood, including anger and irritability
- Academic and/or behavioral problems in school/work
- Rebelliousness
- Changing groups of friends
- Low energy level
- Less interest in activities and/or care in appearance
- Finding alcohol among a person’s things
- Smelling alcohol on a person’s breath
- Problems concentrating and/or remembering
- Slurred speech
- Coordination problems
Alcohol use disorder also comes with a host of physical symptoms related to use and withdrawal. Individuals who are intoxicated may have bloodshot, glassy, or watery eyes, flushed face, droopy eyelids, a blank stare or dazed look, twitching or body tremors, and disheveled clothing. These possible visible signs of intoxication lead to withdrawal symptoms afterward.
Withdrawal from alcohol often includes a headache, nausea and vomiting, sweating, irritability, confusion, tremors, and anxiety. Withdrawal symptoms after chronic long-term use can cause extreme symptoms including seizures and even death.
If you have noticed these changes and are concerned, contact Starbridge Recovery today. Our high-quality detoxification and addiction treatment programs are designed to support individuals through the entire process.
What Does It Mean To Have Co-Morbid Depression and Alcohol Dependence?
To have co-morbid depression and alcohol dependence, individuals must be diagnosed with both or be suffering from similar symptoms and receive a dual diagnosis.
This can occur when an individual who is either struggling with alcohol starts to experience extreme depressive symptoms or an individual with depression starts utilizing alcohol to mitigate the depressive symptoms.
Depression occurs in approximately 30% of adults with a substance use disorder. And substance use disorders are more likely to predate major depressive disorder, indicating there is a link between unhealthy alcohol use and depression. Individuals who experience depressive episodes first are less likely to develop an alcohol use disorder, but it is not uncommon.
If you or a loved one are stuck in the cycle of alcohol use and depression, get help today at Starbridge Recovery.
How Can You Get Help With Co-Morbid Depression and Alcohol Dependence?
Starbridge Recovery is a fully comprehensive addiction treatment program designed to support individuals through dual diagnosis. Clients suffering from comorbid depression and alcohol dependence can receive comprehensive addiction treatment at our luxury facility.
Through Starbridge Recovery, our clients have access to personalized treatment solutions through a combination of alternative and traditional therapeutic programs. By utilizing all supportive measures, the compassionate staff at Starbridge create holistic healing opportunities for each of our clients based on their individual needs.
If you are ready for change, contact Starbridge Recovery today, because you’re worth it. We are ready and willing to support you through your rehabilitation journey.
