Whether you are celebrating, socializing, or just relaxing, there is a good chance that alcohol is involved. It can make you feel happy and more relaxed to have an alcoholic drink, especially when joined with others. However, the effects of too much alcohol consumption can be harmful to your physical health and your mental health. It is normal to want to have a drink when in a situation where it seems customary, but it is important to be cautious that you are not drinking for the wrong reasons.
If you only have alcoholic beverages because you are stressed or upset, it can severely worsen your mental health. If you or a loved one are using alcohol as a way of coping with your problems, then you might want to consider a dual diagnosis treatment program in Virginia. Contact us to find out more information at 703.935.8544.
Alcohol and Mental Health
Because alcohol is a depressant, it is not uncommon to find that people who drink a lot also have mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. It can even sometimes cause psychosis. In some cases, people use alcohol to alleviate the symptoms of depression and anxiety; however, the effects are more harmful than helpful. Take a look at the following mental health concerns that alcohol abuse can complicate:
- Depression: Alcohol affects chemicals in the brain that affect a person’s mood. When someone drinks too much, it can cause depression symptoms. Symptoms can also be worse for those who are taking antidepressants. It is important to stop drinking alcohol if you notice a significant decrease in your mood, which is known to help your mental health increase.
- Anxiety: Especially for someone who already has anxiety, alcohol can make any symptoms you are experiencing worse. Someone who often uses drinking as an excuse to relieve anxiety can cause that person to become reliant. This is why anxiety and alcohol abuse often go hand in hand.
- Self-Harm: In extreme situations, too much alcohol consumption can lead to someone harming him or herself. With inhibition lowered, a person cannot think clearly and in dangerous situations. This is especially apparent for those with anxiety and alcohol abuse issues. Quitting drinking is extremely important if you are having thoughts of harming yourself.
There are, of course, other mental health issues that alcohol abuse can increase the risk of developing. Speaking with a counselor or therapist is perhaps the best way to address an alcohol use disorder and any underlying mental health issues prompting or growing out of it.
Treatment for Mental Health and Alcohol Abuse
It is very important for someone who has a dependency on alcohol to get treatment to make sure that their mental health is stable. Because alcohol and mental health are interlinked, it can be helpful to seek treatment for both. There are many treatment options to choose from, such as:
- Dual diagnosis
- Mental health treatment
- Psychotherapy
- Group therapy
Therapy or some form of treatment allows a person to work with a counselor who will help them cope with their problems in a healthy way. They can also help prevent relapse for those suffering from alcohol abuse.
Getting Help at Insight Into Action Therapy
Seeking help for you or a loved one suffering from mental health and alcohol abuse problems is a difficult but important step. At Insight Into Action Therapy, we are committed to providing the best care for our clients to ensure a happy and healthy lifestyle. We offer a wide variety of therapy and treatment programs for those who need help with mental health and substance abuse problems.
Our team is ready to assist you or a loved one on your journey to recovery. We will be able to find the best fit for your needs. To find out how we can help you, visit our website or contact us at 703.935.8544.
