There is a strong correlation between people with depression and substance abuse- and it’s an issue that affects millions worldwide. Between prescribed over-the-counter medications or recreational use of hard substances, drugs can affect both physical and mental health.
In this blog, we will discuss:
- What is the relationship between drugs and depression?
- Why do drugs make you depressed?
- Which drug causes the most depression?
- Is depression a side effect of drugs?
- What comes first, depression or substance abuse?
- Is depression part of recovery?
- Can drug-induced depression go away?
What is the relationship between drugs and depression?
The relationship between drugs and depression is complex. It will vary from person to person because depression can lead to substance abuse, but substance abuse can also trigger depression.
Additionally, patients who struggle with medical illnesses are generally more likely to suffer from depression. This can cause a dependency on drugs for symptom reduction or a need to take medication that causes depressive symptoms.
What comes first, depression or substance abuse?
Research shows that approximately fifty percent of people with substance abuse disorders (SUDS) also struggle with depression. Depression can turn into substance abuse, but substance abuse can also be the cause of depression. Typically, those struggling with mental illness, mood disorders, or suicidal thoughts will turn to substance abuse to ease their depressive symptoms.
Why do drugs make you depressed?
Drugs can cause depression as they offset typical brain function and balance, which impacts mood and chemical makeup. Neurotransmitters like serotonin or dopamine,
(that are crucial for regulating mood), are usually the most affected.
In the long term, this can cause neurotoxicity, which causes permanent damage to brain cells. Additionally, those going through substance withdrawal symptoms can develop depression.
Which drug causes the most depression?
As a lot of medications have depression listed as a side effect, there is not one drug that causes the most depression.
General drug umbrellas that have the largest history of depression-related symptoms include:
- Anticholinergic medication
- Anti-seizure medication
- Blood pressure medication
- Birth control
- Central nervous system depressants
- Hormone medication
- Pain medication
- Parkinson’s medication
- Steroids
Non-prescription drugs or alcohol that can cause depression include:
- Cocaine
- Ecstasy, or MDMA
- Hallucinogens such as LSD
- Inhalants
- Nicotine
- Opioids such as heroin
Is depression a side effect of drugs?
Yes, depression is a common side effect of drugs. Not only can drugs cause depression, but they can also worsen the symptoms of depression itself, including sadness, sleeping changes, or trouble focusing. This is because some drugs alter brain chemistry and function- which throws off normal brain balance and mood.
Not everyone will develop depression when taking drugs, but it is important to read through and understand all side effects before taking a new medication.
Is depression part of recovery?
Depression and addiction recovery usually go hand in hand, especially in early recovery stages. This is usually due to withdrawal symptoms or the fact that the addict used a substance to subside their previous depression, and it has returned with a lack of substance use.
This is called dual diagnosis–as a new diagnosis emerges from or alongside a pre-existing diagnosis.
Managing depression during recovery includes:
- Support Systems. This includes communities like friends, family, and mental health professionals.
- Therapy. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), or talking therapy, can help you process emotional challenges and receive professional help.
- Medication. Antidepressants or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used as an aid to overcome depression.
- Self-Care. Engaging in wellness behaviors, such as proper nutrition, exercise, and relaxation techniques, can reduce stress and increase quality of life.
Can drug-induced depression go away?
Symptoms of drug-induced depression are not always long-term! Stopping the use of the substance (alcohol or drugs) is the first step to the reduction of depressive symptoms. This can take anywhere from a few days to weeks or even months – depending on the drug’s duration in your body or symptoms of withdrawal. Once withdrawal is overcome, substance-induced depression and mood disorders are more likely to dissolve completely.
Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders at Into Action Recovery
In your depression or recovery, you are not alone. As Houston’s leading drug rehab center, our mission at Into Action Recovery is to empower people struggling with addiction to find health and peace. If you are currently struggling with a dual-diagnosis condition alongside addiction, please call us today at 844-303-3969 to learn more about our dual-diagnosis recovery program.
