The link between depression and alcohol
Many people come to alcohol when they feel sad or depressed. Many studies have shown that alcohol is harmful to health and for people with mental problems such as depression or anxiety, alcohol abuse can make symptoms worse.
People with depression or anxiety disorder sometimes use alcohol to treat themselves, says Dr. Sameer Bhargava, a psychiatrist at Fortis Escorts Faridabad (India). This can easily lead to prolonged alcohol abuse, aggravating the disease. Alcohol disorder and co-morbidity depression are very common and need to be treated comprehensively. Alcohol also reduces the effectiveness of chong-depressants.
How does alcohol affect the brain?
According to Dr. sameer Bhargava Bhargava:
Alcohol affects brain regions involved in physical activity, judgment, inhibition, and memory.
It affects neurotransmitters such as GABA, glutamate, dopamine, causing a feeling of calmness, confusion, and excitement in the short term.
Long-term use causes premature brain atrophy, reducing attention, memory and cognition.
Prolonged alcohol abuse can cause anxiety disorders, depression, emotional disorders, and even serious illnesses such as Wernicke's brain disease and Korsakoff syndrome.
Sudden heavy drinking can cause cramps, cramps and many other dangerous symptoms.
Why do many people feel depressed after drinking alcohol?
Alcohol is a Central Neurological Inhibitor. When alcohol disrupts the chemical balance in the brain, emotions are transformed, leading to:
Southward, downward
Anxiety, stress
Feeling regret or guilt
Poor sleep can aggravate symptoms of depression such as irritability and fatigue.
How to overcome depression and alcohol abuse?
If you are struggling with both, there are many supportive solutions, says Dr. Sameer Bhargava:
Lifestyle changes
Limit stimulants
Get enough sleep
Balanced nutrition, drink enough water
Maintain physical activity
Avoid falling into a state of hunger, anger, loneliness, and fatigue (HALT)
Professional support
Psychological consultation or personal therapy
Treatment with medication when necessary
Supervised alcohol withdrawal program
Community support groups for people who want to change their behavior
The combination of habit adjustment, psychological support and medical treatment often brings the best results.
The information in the article is for reference only, not a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should talk directly to your doctor for accurate advice that is suitable for your health condition.
