Depression and Addiction: What’s the Connection?
Do you struggle with depression? Have you tried to ignore it, hoping it will go away? According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, having depression makes you twice as likely to have a drug or alcohol addiction compared to someone who does not have depression. When depressed, you may turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. Once it wears off and the feelings of despair return, you may increase your drug or alcohol use—this is where addiction takes root.
It is possible to get out of the pit of depression, despair, and addiction. Recognize what depression looks like. Identify the common signs of drug and alcohol addiction. Then, seek a treatment plan that works.