Each day seems to present new levels of fear and paranoia. When you’re living with schizophrenia, the feeling of dread and fear is difficult to manage. It often leads to social isolation, which can make delusions seem more real. So, you overindulge in alcohol to try to feel better – even if it’s only for a short while.
It’s common for people who are struggling with schizophrenia to abuse alcohol. But is schizophrenia triggered by alcohol abuse or is the mental illness fueling a dependence on the substance?
How Common is it for People with Schizophrenia to Abuse Alcohol?
Alcohol abuse is a real problem for people who have schizophrenia. In fact, the Mental Health Institute estimates that over half of people with schizophrenia struggle with drug or alcohol addiction.
Why is this the case? Part of the answer has to do with how alcohol interacts with the symptoms of schizophrenia. Drinking alcohol has a depressive effect on your central nervous system. This effect dulls your senses, dampening some of the more intense symptoms, like hearing voices and paranoia.
How Does Alcohol Affect People with Schizophrenia?
Beyond dulling symptoms of schizophrenia, drinking can also have a more euphoric effect on the mind that helps you feel good. Studies show that those with schizophrenia are more sensitive to alcohol’s euphoric effects. Unfortunately, this can encourage increased drinking and lead to an alcohol use disorder.
The potential complications between these two conditions don’t stop there, though. If you have schizophrenia and abuse alcohol, it’s common to experience harsh symptom relapses such as more severe delusions.
The Risk of Alcohol Abuse Triggering Violence
Some people with schizophrenia may struggle with managing intense emotions, which can be exacerbated by alcohol abuse. Some of your own symptoms may include you believing that certain people are “out to get you.” These symptoms are difficult to manage on their own, but are even more challenging if you’re abusing alcohol.
While alcohol may dull your symptoms and help you feel good, it lowers your ability to regulate your mood and control your emotions. Drinking and going through alcohol withdrawal if you’re addicted can put you at greater risk of exhibiting violent behaviors.
What Are the Three Main Types of Symptoms Associated With Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia symptoms fall into three main categories: psychotic, negative, and cognitive. Psychotic symptoms affect your thinking, behavior, and perception. Negative symptoms make it hard for you to function and connect with others. Cognitive symptoms impact your memory, learning, and focus.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Misuse for People With Schizophrenia?
If you have schizophrenia, you’re three times more likely to develop alcohol use disorders (AUD). Misusing alcohol, whether it’s beer, wine, whisky, or other beverages, can worsen your schizophrenia symptoms and harm your mental health. You might face physical problems like breathing issues, heart problems, stomach troubles, and a weakened immune system. Over time, alcohol misuse can damage your memory and increase depression.
What Are the Warning Signs for Schizophrenia and Alcohol Misuse?
Recognizing early warning signs is crucial for getting help. If you have schizophrenia, signs like hearing things, having unusual beliefs, feeling no joy, and lacking motivation can worsen with alcohol. Behavioral changes, such as secrecy, suspicion, neglecting responsibilities, and relationship struggles, can indicate alcohol-related issues. Being aware of these signs and seeking support is essential.
What Percentage of People With Schizophrenia Develop an Alcohol Use Disorder in Their Life?
About 25% of people with schizophrenia will experience an alcohol use disorder during their lifetime. This makes your journey even harder, so early support and care are very important to help you manage both conditions effectively.
What Genetic Risks Are Shared Between Schizophrenia and AUD?
Certain genes linked to schizophrenia are also associated with AUD. If someone has a genetic predisposition for schizophrenia and starts drinking at a young age, they are more likely to develop both conditions. The interaction between genetic and environmental factors plays a significant role in the development of schizophrenia and alcoholism.
What Can Be Done about Alcohol Abuse and Schizophrenia?
If you’re suffering from schizophrenia, you need to avoid alcohol altogether. If you already abuse alcohol, though, all is not lost. As complex as schizophrenia and alcohol addiction are together, dual diagnosis treatment can help. You’ll work alongside mental health and addiction experts to get to the bottom of your unique challenges and identify the most effective course of treatment for you.
At Fountain Hills Recovery, for example, we focus on providing you with the personalized care you need and deserve in order to recover. It is possible to break free from addiction and find healthy ways to manage your schizophrenia, and we can get you there.
Find Hope for Lasting Change at Fountain Hills Recovery
As Arizona’s top private luxury rehab center, we’re known for our expertise in dual diagnosis treatment. Schizophrenia tries to convince you that you’re alone and lost in a sea of fear. At Fountain Hills Recovery, we can help guide you to a healthier way to cope with your disorder that doesn’t involve alcohol.
If you’re ready to put an end to your alcohol abuse once and for all and learn how to manage your schizophrenia, we’re here for you. To get started on your journey to lasting recovery, contact our admissions team today.
