Addiction and Depression: What is the Link?

Depression and addiction are two mental health conditions that often occur together. It's important to understand that depression and addiction are frequently intertwined, and one can exacerbate the other. Understanding the link between the two can help those who are struggling with both conditions to get the help they need.

Read on to learn more about symptoms, causes, and treatment options for these co-occurring conditions. 

What is depression? 

Depression is a common mental disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems and can decrease an individual's ability to function at work and at home. Depression symptoms can differ from person to person. However, common symptoms may include:

• Hopelessness

• Feelings of guilt

• Lack of interest in activities

• Changes in appetite and sleep

• Lack of concentration

• Suicidal thoughts

• Physical aches and pain

• Feeling agitated

• Less physical activity

You may also like: Overcoming Depression: How Therapy Helped Me

What is addiction? 

Addiction is a mental health condition in which a person seeks substances or alcohol even though it has harmful consequences. It can also refer to certain behaviours, such as gambling. Addiction can cause changes in the brain that can make it very difficult for the person to quit. The symptoms of addiction can be:

• Strong urges or cravings to use substances.

• Withdrawal symptoms when stopping the use of substances.

• Repeated failed attempts to stop or control substance use.

• A tolerance to substances.

• Using substances in larger amounts for longer periods than intended.

A few signs of potentially concerning substance use:

• You spend a lot of time thinking about your next chance to drink alcohol or use substances.

• Although you are aware that your substance use is causing issues, you are unable to stop using it, despite the negative consequences.

• Once the effects of the drugs or alcohol wear off, you feel even more exhausted and bitter about life.

• You need more and more of the substance to keep your mood and energy stable.

• You feel guilty or ashamed about your substance use, but can’t stop even if you try.

• The potential long-term effects of substance use seem insignificant compared to the hopelessness you feel about your future.

Please seek help as soon as possible if you experience these symptoms. 

What is the link between addiction and depression? 

Researchers have found a strong connection between depression and addiction. Those with depression are more likely to develop an addiction, and those with an addiction are more likely to experience depression. According to a research paper published in 2022, 20.8% of people with MDD also have alcohol use disorder. However, evidence also suggests that those with depression are almost twice as likely to self-medicate with alcohol. Some reasons may be: 

• To self-soothe and numb uncomfortable emotions

• To lift one’s mood. “Since alcohol and drugs release feel-good neurotransmitters in the brain, they can help numb unpleasant emotions and release feelings of euphoria,” says Aaron Sternlicht, LMHC, CASAC, a therapist and co-founder of Family Addiction Specialist in New York. 

• To get some sleep, as depression can make sleeping difficult

One theory is that individuals may use substances or engage in certain behaviours as a way to self-medicate and alleviate their depression symptoms.

Another theory is that the changes in the brain that occur with addiction can also lead to depression. Just as depression can factor into substance use, substance use disorders can also play a part in depression. Several substances, particularly alcohol, can cause your brain to release dopamine, which causes feelings of pleasure.

But they can also increase inflammation in the brain. Inflammation, in turn, makes it harder for your brain to produce mood-boosting chemicals like serotonin and dopamine on its own. Moreover, a 2014 study found that MDMA users have up to four times more cortisol in their bodies than non-users. Additionally, drinking and using drugs excessively can negatively impact your career and schoolwork, not to mention relationships. A person isolated from others may have trouble receiving encouragement, sympathy, and affection - emotional support can be critical to managing and coping with mental illness. This may, in part, help explain why loneliness can increase your chances of developing depression.

If you experienced abuse, neglect, or other maltreatment in childhood, you’re up to 3 times as likely to develop depression as peers who didn’t experience childhood abuse. You’re also more likely to develop a substance use disorder.

How are addiction and depression treated? 

It is important to note that the relationship between depression and addiction is complex and can occur in both directions. For example, one may develop depression as a result of their addiction, or they may use substances as a way to cope with the symptoms of their depression. This is why it is crucial for individuals who are struggling with both conditions to receive a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan that addresses both depression and addiction simultaneously.

One common treatment approach for co-occurring depression and addiction is called Integrated Treatment. In this approach, addiction treatment is combined with therapy and medication management. This allows one to receive treatment for both conditions at the same time and can help to improve outcomes.

Another treatment approach is the Stages of Change Model, based on the idea that individuals progress through different stages when trying to make changes in their lives, such as quitting a substance or behaviour. 

It is important to note that treatment for co-occurring depression and addiction can be a long-term process that requires ongoing support and commitment. That’s why aftercare is a critical component of treatment for co-occurring depression and addiction. Aftercare may include ongoing therapy, support groups, and medication. This can help individuals to maintain their progress and continue to work on their recovery. 

The most effective approach for treating both conditions is a holistic one that addresses the individual's physical, and emotional needs. With the right support, you can overcome your depression and addiction and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.