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Alcohol-depression link varies over time

While UK and Australian researchers have confirmed that there is a J-shaped association between alcohol consumption and symptoms of depression and anxiety in the medium-term, this does not appear to be the case in the longer term.

Several studies have shown that people who consume alcohol at harmful levels are more likely to suffer symptoms of anxiety and depression. Nevertheless, the nature and cause of this association is unclear, with some research indicating that there is a J-shaped relationship, in which low consumption of alcohol protects against depression and anxiety.

Rosa Alati, from the University of Queensland in Herston, Australia, and colleagues studied 4527 women who received antenatal care between 1981 and 1984, and for whom follow-up data were available on alcohol use, depression, and anxiety symptoms over the subsequent 14 years.

The results, published in the journal Addiction, reveal that, after 5 years, there was a J-shaped curve relationship between alcohol consumption and the symptoms of the depression and anxiety.

In contrast, alcohol consumption displayed a linear and positive link with depression symptoms at both baseline and the 14-year follow-up, with greater consumption associated a greater prevalence of symptoms.

Interestingly, the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms among participants who were previous drinkers and had become abstainers was similar at baseline, 5 years and 14 years.

"Our study shows that the relationship between alcohol consumption and symptoms of depression and anxiety may vary across different stages of the life course in women," the team writes.

"Further, the association of increased symptoms of depression and anxiety among heavy female drinkers may largely reflect the impact of low income and smoking on both alcohol consumption and these symptoms. We suggest that further research is conducted to confirm these results."

Addiction 2005; 100: 643-651

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