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  • Dec. 3, 2009

    Alcohol and depression: What are the risks?

    By David Mrazek, M.D.

28 comments posted

We've all heard that doing things "in moderation" is acceptable.

Need more help?
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
    1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Go to the nearest hospital or emergency room
  • Call your physician, health provider or clergy
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness
    www.nami.org
    1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
So can you drink a moderate amount of alcohol if you have depression? I don't advise it. In most cases, one should steer clear of alcohol for a number of reasons:

  • Potentially dangerous interactions with medications. Not just psychiatric medications and not just prescription medications, remember over-the-counter medications, too!
  • Alcohol itself is a depressant and can make depression (and anxiety) worse.
  • Alcohol affects one's judgment and decreases inhibitions.
  • Alcohol has a negative impact on the quality of sleep overall.
  • Alcohol can worsen other health problems.

Have a discussion with your health care provider regarding alcohol and depression. Certainly if you have a history of alcohol abuse, dependence, and/or have had treatment for alcohol or other drugs, please be honest with your provider. Your provider will be able to best help you when they have all the facts.

28 comments posted

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MY01078 Dec. 3, 2009

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