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Topic: depression verses addiction
Topic Posted by: jan morris (morrisl@ieighty.net )Date Posted: Mon Mar 30 0:07:45 1998
Topic Description: Do the levels of chemicals in the brain at time of addiction in any way resemble those of depression? Are they at all similar in makeup? Are any of the same drugs for depression used in addiction therapy? Does the brain after it is addicted resemble the depressed brain? Are healing therapies similar and in what ways?
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Posted by: Cynthia Dulmage (d.c.dulmage@snet.net )
Date posted: Mon Mar 30 10:29:39 1998
Subject: Depression/Anxiety/Addictions
Message:
I am very interested in joining in a discussion, in order to learn more and to better understand how to take care of one's self/loved ones, when symptoms of the above are evident. I speak for myself, and I am seeing a therapist for depression/anxiety...and know that in the past I have "used" alcohol to relieve anxiety (mostly). I think we all feel we have to - show the world that we are in "control, in good spirits, happy-go-lucky, fun to be with/and around...having a good time". And, that' where alcohol comes in to play. As soon as one goes to visit an aquaintance or friend, say for dinner, the first thing that is said after the necessary introductions are made is "what would you like to drink?" And, everyone...waits to hear what it is, and then, conversation begins...with everyone in the room standing around with a drink in their hand. This is of course the way it is...for as long as I can remember and takes place everywhere in the world. This is how it begins and continues only the people who are more vulnerable (genetics/family history) are gradually going to find themselves having more,faster,stronger, etc. to get to where they got to, earllier on in their life. I guess this is what needs to change as well as raising the awareness levels of all concerned, not only to the dangers but also, to a greater feeling of understanding and compassion for people who find themselves slowly but surely unable...to control...their need, to have more than they should to drink, in order to "relax" and to be "fun to be around" etc. Definitely, bringing this topic up and out into the light of day is the most wonderful thing that has happened, I think, in a long time. Bill Moyers is the greatest gift to us all, his program (his family) are just so wonderful, I watched him the other night on Larry King. His son is so charming, warm, sweet...how thrilled I am to see his recovery...and to witness his dedication to helping others. Very moving indeed. Well, I am anxious to read, see, listen and learn more on the ongoing PBS special and hope for follow-ups to the links between depression/anxiety/alcohol abuse. I believe this is where the science will enter the picture, not just therapy...for a medication to calm the craving, the craving to, calm the anxiety. My family life as a child was a horror because of alcohol, both my parents were alcoholics. My brother is a recovering alcoholic, I can and do abstain...without difficulty, and I know I am fortunate to be able to do so. But I also know, there are times when I drink too much...and why? My "reasoning" is usually, unreasonable:to lose control instead of being always "in control"...to "let go". I have just as much "fun"not drinking, that I've found to be 100% real. My problem is more one of my thinking clearly, and looking the real problem squarely in the eye. It's avoidance. It's a stage in my life I'm working on. But, enough of me and that. Is there a chemical connection, in the brain, that leads us down that road? There would have to be a link. I look forward to learning more. Thank you all at PBS for your making a difference, making a better world for all of us. Yours, Cynthia
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