Dual Struggle: Substance Abuse and Depression

 

By Rachel Benson, LMFT 

Rachel received her Masters's Degree in Counseling Psychology and specialized in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) with Distinction. She is originally from Hong Kong, and she speaks several languages, including Cantonese and Mandarin. Rachel is certified in Brainspotting, and  trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), sand tray therapy, Gottman Couple Therapy, and Play Therapy with young children. 

Have you ever noticed that a night of heavy drinking leaves you feeling even lower the next day? That’s not just a coincidence—it’s brain chemistry at work.

Substance abuse and depression are deeply connected, often forming a cycle that is difficult to break. Many individuals with depression turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness. While substances may seem to provide temporary relief, they often worsen depression in the long run by disrupting the brain’s natural chemistry.

How Substances Affect the Brain

When we misuse substances like alcohol, marijuana, opioids, or stimulants, they activate the brain’s reward system. This system relies on dopamine and serotonin—the “feel-good” chemicals that regulate mood and motivation. Substances can flood the brain with these chemicals, producing a brief sense of calm.

But the brain adapts. Over time, it reduces its natural production of dopamine and serotonin and makes receptors less sensitive. When the substance wears off, we are left with even lower levels of these chemicals, leading to sadness, fatigue, and hopelessness.

NIDA (2020) notes that when the brain relies on substances, it struggles to create normal levels of reward on its own, impairing mood regulation and increasing dependence. Other than that, alcohol is linked to higher levels of depressive symptoms over time (Conner et al., 2009), and substance use disorders make depression more severe and harder to treat (McGovern et al., 2023). In short, what starts as a “bandage” (the temporary relief) for emotional pain often becomes a deeper wound (deeper depression).

The TRAP

The relationship between depression and substance use can feel like a trap:

Depression → Substance use for relief → Brain chemistry imbalance → Worse depression → Stronger craving for substances → Deeper depression.

This cycle can lead to withdrawal symptoms, emotional lows, and even higher risks of suicidal thoughts. 

Healthier Ways to Cope with Depression

The good news: there are healthier, lasting ways to cope. Strategies that support the brain’s natural chemistry can help restore balance:

●     Therapy: Professional support to reframe negative thought patterns and build coping tools.

●     Exercise: Boosts mood by increasing natural endorphins and dopamine.

●     Social connection: Being with others can counteract isolation and hopelessness.

●     Routine: Structure helps reduce decision fatigue and creates stability.

●     Sleep hygiene: Consistent, restorative sleep allows the brain to recharge.

●     Mindfulness: Breathing exercises, meditation, or focusing on the present can reduce stress hormones and increase serotonin.

●     Creative outlets: Art, music, writing, and/or hobbies can spark joy and engagement.

●     Nature and animals: Time outdoors or with pets has proven to improve mood and reduce stress.

Final Thoughts

Substance use may feel like a shortcut to relief, but in reality, it deepens depression by disrupting the very brain systems designed to regulate mood. The path to healing is not about quick fixes—it’s about rebuilding resilience and allowing your brain and body to recover naturally.

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in this cycle, know that you’re not alone—and it’s not a sign of weakness. Your brain and body are simply reacting to the substances in ways that make recovery harder. With the right support, healthier coping strategies, and patience, it is possible to break the cycle.

Contact us at MiraCosta College Health Services at 760-795-6675 or mccshs@MiraCosta.edu or stop by Building 14, room 14114 at the OC campus or 917 at the SAN campus for more information.

References

●       Conner KR, Pinquart M, Gamble SA. (2009). Meta-analysis of depression and substance use among individuals with alcohol use disorders. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 37(2), 127–137. doi:10.1016/j.jsat.2008.11.007

●       McGovern MP, Dunn J, Bonnell LN, et al. (2023). The Association Between Depression and Substance Use Among Primary Care Patients with Comorbid Medical and Behavioral Health Conditions. Journal of Primary Care & Community Health, 14. doi:10.1177/21501319231200302

●       NIDA. (2020). Drugs and the Brain. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drugs-brain

 

 

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