Alcohol may have a profound effect on anxiety and depression when problems develop with the mental disorders or the drinking. Alcohol abuse or dependence can have negative consequences on behavior, work and family life. Anxiety produces nervousness about situations. In extreme cases, it can cause irrational fears, trembling, weakness or feelings of losing control. People with depression may exhibit feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue and suicidal tendencies.
Effects
Alcohol affects the brain in similar ways that anxiety and depression affect the brain, according to Netdoctor. The disorders affect a part of the brain that produces moods. Areas of the brain involved with poor sleep and reduced appetite are associated with alcohol, anxiety and depression. Genetic links may influence alcoholism, depression and anxiety disorders, because many people with the disorders report having family members with the same disorder.
Significance
Moderate drinking can lower anxiety at times, but heavy drinking may contribute to anxiety disorder symptoms, according to Psychtreatment.com, the website for St. Louis Psychologists and Counseling Information and Referral. The symptoms may result from generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks and phobias. Intoxication and withdrawal from alcohol may lead to anxiety disorders. Anxiety may be more intense during heavy drinking and withdrawal. Abstinence may improve or eliminate anxiety over time. It may take three to four weeks for anxiety to disappear in some people, indicating a relationship between anxiety and alcohol, Psychtreatment.com notes.
Function
Alcohol is often used as self-medication for people suffering from depression, Netdoctor explains. Drinking may bring brief relief for depression, but long-term or heavy use worsens the mental disorder. Heavy alcohol consumption also results in depressive moods. Stressful life events and childhood neglect are factors in alcoholism and depression.
Expert Insight
A person who has an emotional or psychiatric problem and an alcohol or drug problem is defined as having a dual diagnosis, Mental Health America says. Depression and anxiety disorders are among the common disorders that coexist with alcohol or drug abuse. In some cases, the mental disorder develops first and the person may use alcohol or drugs as a calming effect. At other times alcohol or drug abuse can be the prime condition, which soon brings on symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Prevention/Solution
When alcohol problems, anxiety and depression co-exist, the conditions need to be treated separately. Withdrawal from alcohol usually occurs first through detoxification so the person is better able to handle the treatments for alcohol recovery, depression and anxiety disorder. Alcoholism and depression may be so severe they must be brought under control before treatment for anxiety can take place, the National Institute of Mental Health says. Treatment consists of therapy and medication.
