Does Xanax Help With Or Cause Depression?

Some doctors prescribe alprazolam (brand name Xanax) to treat anxiety disorders like panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. This medication can provide short-term relief for panic attacks and other symptoms of anxiety. 

Many people who suffer from anxiety also struggle with depression. If you’re one of them, you may wonder how Xanax will impact your depressive symptoms. 

Is Xanax An Antidepressant?

No. Xanax is a tranquilizer, which means it’s designed to decrease anxiety and agitation. It belongs to a class of tranquilizers known as benzodiazepines (or “benzos”). Other benzodiazepines include clonazepam (brand name Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan). 

Benzodiazepines increase the effects of a neurotransmitter (brain chemical) called gamma-Aminobutyric acid, or GABA. This chemical makes you feel calm and relaxed. 

While benzodiazepines won’t treat depression, they’re sometimes prescribed alongside antidepressants for people who suffer from co-occurring anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. 

The most commonly prescribed antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Common SSRIs include: 

• fluoxetine (brand name Prozac)
• sertraline (Zoloft)
• fluvoxamine (Luvox)

Can Xanax Cause Depression?

Yes. Like all benzodiazepines, Xanax is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Another popular CNS depressant is alcohol. While these drugs can relax you, they can also cause depressive symptoms such as:

• drowsiness
• intense sadness
• loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• mood swings
• hopelessness
• suicidal thoughts and/or attempts

Seek medical advice immediately if you or someone you love experiences these side effects. You’re more likely to experience them if you abuse Xanax, which means using it in a manner not prescribed by your doctor. 

Xanax Addiction

Over time, Xanax abuse can cause addiction. Common signs of addiction include:

• intense cravings for Xanax
• tolerance, or needing increasingly higher doses of the drug to feel the desired effects
• physical dependence, or experiencing unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop using the drug 

Long-term use of Xanax, even as prescribed by a doctor, can also lead to Xanax addiction. It’s extremely difficult to recover from addiction without professional help, especially when you’re suffering from depression.

If you or a loved one struggles with depression or Xanax abuse or addiction, please reach out to an Ark Behavioral Health specialist to learn about our substance abuse treatment programs.