Anxiety Disorders
Depression is not the only mental disorder that can result from alcohol abuse. Another possibility is an anxiety disorder, in which the patient has uncontrollable worry. The American Geriatrics Society states that older adults who abuse alcohol are three times more likely to have a psychological disorder. A person with an anxiety disorder may also abuse alcohol to self-medicate, as alcohol can temporarily reduce anxiety. But over time, the alcohol abuse can worsen an anxiety disorder.