Sunday, January 6, 2008

Alcoholics With Depression Less Likely To Stay Sober

It’s hard to stay on the wagon when you’re depressed, according to a new study of problem drinkers.

Researchers from the Minneapolis VA Medical Center documented the quitting success of 462 people who tried to simultaneously give up alcohol and cigarettes.

At the beginning of the study, participants smoked at least five cigarettes a day and were alcohol dependent. Among the group, typical problematic drinking symptoms included repeatedly imbibing more than planned, difficulty quitting or cutting down, and continuing to drink even though drinking caused problems such as hangovers or sleeping difficulty.

All participants received intensive alcohol and smoking cessation treatment. Up to a year and a half later, researchers surveyed the participants and asked about their alcohol and tobacco habits.

READ MORE @ SCIENCE DAILY