Depression and Addiction Recovery

We all have bad days or experience sadness from time to time, and you might be tempted to say, “I’m depressed” to communicate that feeling. However, some people have a persisting sadness that goes beyond a temporary or circumstantial change of mood, which is a more accurate illustration of what Depression really is and the seriousness of this condition. For some, depression can be intertwined with drug or alcohol addiction, regardless of which disorder caused the other.

What is Depression?

Also called Major Depressive Disorder or Clinical Depression, Depression is a fairly common mood disorder that affects how you live in various ways, including your thinking, feelings, and ability to perform day-to-day activities.

What is the relationship between Depression and addiction?

There are many people who self-medicate to relieve the symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression. The reality is that substances such as drugs or alcohol can worsen depression and its symptoms, as well as lead to substance abuse and addiction.

What are the symptoms of Depression?

Symptoms vary from person to person, but the most common signs typically evaluated for in the diagnosis process include:

• Persisting feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Lost interest or pleasure in typically enjoyable activities
• Significant changes in appetite or weight gain/loss
• Insomnia or oversleeping
• Fatigue
• Lack of concentration
• Issues remembering
• Suicidal thoughts or thoughts about death

What causes Depression?

There is no single cause of Depression, but there are various factors that contribute to one’s becoming depressed, including:

• Genetics: A family history of depression may produce a higher predisposition
• Biology: Brain chemical imbalances (serotonin and dopamine) may contribute to mood dysregulation and depression
• Environment: Stressors, stressful life events (loss, relationship hardships, etc.)
• Psychology: Negative thinking, low self-esteem, trauma, etc.

How is Depression diagnosed?

Diagnosing depression requires a comprehensive evaluation from a professional, including:

• Clinical interviews
• Physical examinations
• Diagnostic criteria based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
• Standardized questionnaires and assessments

How to Overcome Addiction and Depression

There are a variety of treatment modalities that have helped those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders like depression, including:

• Evidence-Based Therapies
• Family Therapy
• Holistic Therapies
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment
• 12-Step Program

Can Depression be prevented?

There isn’t a proven strategy for 100% prevention of depression, but there are ways to reduce risk and promote positive mental health, including:

• Regular physical activity
• Balanced diet
• Healthy sleep schedule
• Meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Yoga
• Healthy relationships
• Reducing exposure to negative news, social media, or high-stress environments
• Counseling and therapy

What is the difference between Depression and Anxiety?

Although both Depression and Anxiety are interconnected, they have their distinct qualities from one another.

Here are some of the differences:

• Depression is rooted in sadness and hopelessness, while Anxiety is rooted in worry and fear.
• Anxiety exhibits physically increased heart rate and sweating, whereas Depression involves fatigue and appetite changes.
• Depression revolves around negative thoughts about oneself, while Anxiety is a persistent worry about external threats.

• Educate yourself about Depression
• Encourage professional help
• Be an active listener
• Offer practical assistance with chores, errands, etc.
• Encourage positive and productive activities
• Be patient and understanding
• Stay connected and check in with them
• Avoid minimizing their feelings
• Encourage sticking with active treatment
• Take care of yourself while helping them

Clinical and Holistic Treatments for Addiction and Co-Occurring Disorders at Into Action Recovery

Whether you’re seeking understanding, searching for resources, or are simply curious about co-occurring mental health disorders and addiction, we’re here to help. 

Understanding depression and its relationship to addiction is the first step toward seeking help and improving mental well-being for yourself or your loved one. 
If you or someone you know is struggling with any of these conditions, please look into our recovery services and connect with one of our team members today.