Examining the alcohol-related consequences of adult drinkers who self-report medicating low mood with alcohol: An analysis of the 2001-2002 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions survey data

Investigating the nature of depressive experiences in adults who self-medicate low mood with alcohol

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to explore if individuals who self-medicate with alcohol experience higher levels of depression, and if symptom level experiences are affected by the behaviour of self-medication.

DESIGN

Data was from the Wave I (2001-2002) National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions - NESARC. Only participants who experienced either one or both of the two stem questions which highlight the key symptoms of depression were included (n=13,753).

RESULTS

A one factor model of depression was supported. Experiences of suicidality were more likely to be endorsed by people who self-medicated, compared to those with low mood who do not use alcohol in this way. Typically, more common experiences of depression in the form of appetite difficulties, were less likely to be reported by those who self-medicated, compared to those who do not.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings aid understanding of the drinking patterns and other mental health correlates of those who engage in the behaviour of self-medication. Findings indicate that those who self-medicate are at a higher risk for suicidality, given the same level of depression. These findings highlight the importance of identifying these potentially problematic health behaviours as early as possible, due to these risks.