What is the relationship between depression and drug abuse?

Don’t mention it and cheers.

Thanks a lot for your kind reply.

The relationship between depression and drug abuse is complex and bidirectional. Individuals with depression often use drugs or alcohol as a form of self-medication to alleviate feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-worth. However, substance use can exacerbate depressive symptoms, leading to a worsening cycle of addiction and mental health issues.

Approximately one-third of people with major depression also engage in substance abuse, with alcohol being the most common co-occurring disorder. Effective treatment requires addressing both conditions simultaneously, as untreated substance use can hinder recovery from depression and vice versa.