Alcohol dependence affects people from all walks of life. However, people with anxiety disorders and those who experience a high level of stress on a regular basis may be more vulnerable to alcohol use and abuse. While drinking can have a brief soothing effect, alcohol consumption worsens mental health issues over time, along with contributing to other medical problems.
As a central nervous system depressant, consuming alcohol reduces cognitive function. It also temporarily quells the effects of stress and anxiety by inducing a feeling of relaxation in the drinker.
Over time, a person will need to consume more alcohol to experience the same effects. And when mental health issues remain untreated and stress is at a constant high, a person may continue to drink even if it is not in their best interest. This is how substance abuse and dependence problems begin for many people, as the cycle of poor mental health and alcohol consumption continues.
Along with seeking professional addiction treatment and/or visiting a therapist to deal with mental health issues like anxiety, the following steps can reduce the effects of stress:
Leading a healthy lifestyle can also help. In this case, be sure to eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night.