When a person is depressed, it can be tempting to relieve depressive symptoms by turning to drugs and/or alcohol. An estimated one-third of people with clinical depression engage in substance abuse as a form of self-medication to relieve feelings of hopelessness, low-self-opinion, and despair.
Although these chemical intoxicants may temporarily relieve symptoms, they can also make depression more severe and trigger or intensify the negative feelings and self-destructive behaviors associated with depression.
For those struggling with depression who feel there is no end in sight, drugs and alcohol may sometimes appear to be an easy solution to their problems. These substances can temporarily subside any emotional pain and bring about a sense of happiness. However, these substances can become addictive. The more you consume, the more dependent your body will become on their effects. Over time, substance abuse can exacerbate symptoms of depression as well as lead to health problems like brain damage down the road.
The following are the different ways in overcoming drug addiction and substance abuse.
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