Substance-induced mood disorder It is a type of depression caused by the use of alcohol, drugs or medications. Substance/medication-induced depressive disorder is the diagnostic name for depression induced by alcohol or drugs. Unlike the normal, fleeting feelings of sadness that everyone experiences, or even the temporary hangover that people often get the morning after using alcohol or drugs, when substance-induced depression sets in, you feel significantly worse for much longer. For some people, it implies a complete lack of motivation or joy in life. In some cases, according to Dr. Elizabeth Hartney (August 15, 2021).

Substance-induced depression can begin immediately and the onset can also begin when the person is high.. Symptoms of depression during the substance-induced episode can also occur during withdrawal. However, with depression, which is a withdrawal symptom, a person's mood will usually improve within a few days of not taking the medication. Additionally, while the individual experiences substance-induced depression, it may begin during withdrawal and continue or worsen as the person progresses through the detoxification process.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is not given to someone if they have a history of depression without substance use, or if symptoms continue for more than a month after the individual abstains from alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications.

To meet the criteria for depression-induced depressive disorder

substances/medications:

• Prominent, persistent, and significant mood disturbance that first occurred after reduction or withdrawal from a substance capable of inducing depressive symptoms and continues after the initial period of withdrawal.

• Absence of evidence that the depressive episode is independent of substance use or began before taking the medication

• Impaired functioning or clinically significant discomfort

Types of psychoactive substances that can cause substance-induced depression

•Alcohol

• Phencyclidine

• Inhalant

• Opioid

• Sedative

• Hypnotic

• Anxiolytic

• Amphetamine

• Cocaine

Medications known to cause substance-induced depression

•Steroid

• L-dopa

• Antibiotic

• Central Nervous System Medication

• Chemotherapeutic drug

• Immunological agent

Treatment of substance-induced mood disorder

Treatment for substance-induced mood disorder involves using a combination of psychotherapy and drug counseling. Implementation of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, or motivational enhancement therapy are also additional treatment options. Providing support and effective communication will also improve an individual's treatment. Due to the risk of suicide, it will be appropriate to be evaluated for suicide and keep lines of communication open to help mitigate this risk.

Hartney, E. (2021, August 15). How substance abuse can lead to mood disorders. VerywellMind. Retrieved September 26, 2022, from: https://www.verywellmind.com/substance-medication-induced-depressive-disorder-21931

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DIANA BELTRAN

“Making an appointment to begin your therapeutic journey is a form of self-care and you don't have to do it alone.”

Her specialties are: Trauma, domestic violence, family violence, family therapy, play therapy for children and parents, depression and anxiety

Their attention specializes in: Children, Adolescents, Adults and families