Depression is a mental health disorder that affects a person's mood. A person may experience bouts of depression throughout his lifetime. When he is depressed, he may have problems being successful in many facets of his life. Despite the effectiveness of depression treatment, many people avoid treatment and attempt to reduce their depression on their own. This can lead to issues with drugs or alcohol.
Basics
Episodes of depression cause a person to experience feelings of intense sadness, fatigue, worthlessness, helplessness, inability to find pleasure, isolation from social interactions and suicidal thoughts or behaviors. When a person experiences problems with drugs or alcohol, she will seek out and continue to use the substance despite the negative effects it has on her relationships, finances, and work or academic performance.
Gender Disparity
According to research reported by National Institute of Mental Health, having a substance abuse problem along with depression occurs more often in men than women. It is, however, generally common for both sexes in the United States.
Considerations
A depressed person may begin using drugs or alcohol in order to suppress her symptoms of depression. On the other hand, a person using drugs or alcohol may become depressed due to the drug or alcohol use. Alcohol and some drugs have depressive qualities. The relationship, career and financial problems that result from substance abuse or dependence problems may trigger the development of depression.
Treatment
The National Institute of Mental Health reports that research has demonstrated that treatments for depression and other coexisting illnesses should be done in tandem to reduce the symptoms of both disorders. The first step in treatment for both substance abuse problems and depression is to stop taking the substance. Once a person achieves sobriety, treatment will focus on preventing relapse, developing positive coping skills, reducing depression symptoms, overcoming challenges and improving decision making skills. Treatment may also include the use of medications, although this will be up to the recommendation of the doctor or psychiatrist.
Tips
Finding a treatment program that meets a person's individual needs helps him overcome mental health problems. Programs that treat depression along with substance abuse allow the person to tailor her goals and decisions to herself and her needs. These programs provide an education on the disorder and teach patients to handle future relationships and life stressors.
