Post-alcohol depression
Alcoholic drinks have a destructive effect on the body and all processes occurring in it. Mental conditions that occur after prolonged abuse are often temporary, such as post-alcoholic depression.
Alcoholism destroys a person physically and morally, personality degradation occurs. Very often, an alcoholic patient tries to cope with depression with the help of a well-known method – drinking a new dose of alcohol, as a result, the person finds himself in a vicious circle. In the case when this depression appears in a person who does not suffer from alcoholism, but who has consumed a large dose of alcohol, such depression is treated rather quickly.
Symptoms of post-alcoholic depression
The main signs of post-alcoholic depression are:
- The patient is depressed all the time ;
- He has a depressed mood;
- The patient is inactive;
- Inhibition of cognitive functions occurs;
- The person has decreased mental reactions;
- The patient feels guilty;
- His instinct for self-preservation is dulled;
- Suicidal tendencies appear;
- A person is not capable of experiencing pleasure in life, nothing pleases him;
- The patient does not see the meaning of life.
Often, post-alcoholic depression is accompanied by acute manic-depressive psychosis, as well as other types of depression. Only a qualified specialist will be able to help a patient with post-alcoholic depression, therefore, if you see signs of this disorder, do not delay, consult a doctor.
Treatment of post-alcoholic depression
The patient’s refusal to consume alcoholic beverages contributes to the most effective treatment of post-alcoholic depression. At the beginning of treatment, consultation with the patient’s relatives is necessary .
Treatment of post-alcoholic depression is carried out with the help of pharmacological treatment and psychotherapy. The final stage of treatment is the social rehabilitation of the patient.
Pharmacological treatment consists in the use of modern antidepressants, which relieve symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and guilt. The patient’s mood and self-esteem improves, and the general condition improves. However, after drug withdrawal, many factors can trigger a relapse of alcohol dependence and associated depression.
Treatment with drugs takes place in combination with psychotherapy: individual, group, and family. The main goal of psychotherapy is to form a correct attitude towards life, the patient learns to live and enjoy life without alcohol, and establishes new connections.
Hypnotic psychotherapy is often used in the treatment of post-alcoholic depression. During hypnosis, the specialist instills an aversion to alcohol.
Ancillary treatments for post-alcoholic depression include:
- Physiotherapy;
- Manual therapy;
- Acupuncture;
These methods help to improve and stabilize the state of the nervous system, overcome chronic fatigue and depression, improve overall physical condition, and also activate the body’s defenses.