Alcoholism and depression are two serious ailments that many people suffer from. If a person suffers from both, treatment and recovery can be a difficult process, but it is not impossible. If you or someone you love is suffering from these ailments, understanding them and learning about treatment may help in recovering from both of these illnesses.
Seek medical help immediately.
A professional will be able to assess your level and severity and map out a safe plan for fighting alcoholism and depression. Most treatment plans will treat a depressed alcoholic both medically and mentally, so talk with your doctor to figure out what plan will be best for you.Detox from alcohol.
This means quitting it completely so that your body can remove it from your system. Detox is never easy, as your body has become chemically dependent on the drug and therefore will react to its absence in a number of ways. Detox is typically done in a medical facility where you are monitored and treated with medication to ease withdrawl. Detox typically takes one to two weeks.Start alcoholism therapy.
Therapy is an integral step in treating alcoholism and depression. Therapy may begin when you start detox to help you mentally cope with the absence of alcohol, while battling your depression.Begin medication.
Anti-depressant medication may be administered to help rebuild your serotonin levels and to serve as a crutch in battling depression. Popular medications are Prozac, Zoloft and Lexapro. Medical supervision when taking these drugs is important.Set up a support system.
Therapy is necessary even after you've been released from a recovery program. Since you'll be back in the real world, it's important to find a group or program to help keep you from relapsing, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.Warnings
- Alcoholism and depression can be dangerous, which is why it is important to have professional help. Never assume you can treat this illnesses on your own.
- If you know someone dealing with these illnesses talk to them about help he or she can get immediately as these are illnesses that only get more severe as they progress.
