Does Alcohol Cause Depression?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), a depressive disorder “interferes with daily life, normal functioning, and causes pain for both the person with the disorder and those who care about him or her.” Depression is a brain disorder and although research is still being conducted to determine the exact causes, the NIMH states “it likely results from a combination of genetic, biochemical, environmental, and psychological factors.” Alcohol is a well-known depressant drug, which means it relaxes the body and causes a person’s reaction time and mood to be altered through slowing down the central nervous system. Since alcohol has a direct impact on the brain, and it also alters a person’s biochemistry, the possibility that alcohol may trigger depression has been worth scientific study.
In New Zealand, a new study has been conducted to determine if alcohol may cause depression. Over 1,000 adults were monitored for alcohol abuse and depression at different ages – 17 to 18, 20 to 21 and 24 to 25. The results of the study were unable to conclusively link alcohol as a cause of depression, but rather indicated that alcohol may trigger a genetic marker that increases the risk of major depression.
“The underlying mechanisms that give rise to such an association are unclear; however, it has been proposed that this link may arise from genetic processes in which the use of alcohol acts to trigger genetic markers that increase the risk of major depression. In addition, further research suggests that alcohol’s depressant characteristics may lead to periods of depressed affect among those with alcohol abuse or dependence.”
Major Depressive Disorder is estimated to affect approximately 14.8 million people, or over 6% of the American population each year. Even though alcohol cannot conclusively be associated as a cause of depression, research shows that the two are connected. People who are suffering from or diagnosed with depression would be well-advised to discuss their alcohol consumption with their doctor to determine if drinking is right for them.
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March 17th, 2009 at 5:13 am
Yes, some people drink alcohol to escape in problem and depression, but base on my own experience it can also cause depression. thanks for the post.
-mj-
March 20th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Great post. Alcohol is a know depressant, but I don’t think that people make the connection that excessive amounts of alcohol can lead to depression. Very interesting links and stats. Thanks for sharing!
April 3rd, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Thanks for the post. It makes sense. Alcohol is a depressant, so why wouldn’t it cause depression over time? thanks for the stats!!
October 27th, 2009 at 2:42 am
Alcohol don’t cause depression at the initial stage. But as it is a powerful depressant, they will affect the brain and central nervous system which results in chronic depression. Recent researches have also proved that alcohol abuse or addiction to alcohols may result in strokes due to depression.
Thanks for the post.