Can Xanax Cause Depression, Insomnia & Suicidal Thoughts?

What Is Xanax?

Xanax is a brand name for generic alprazolam, which is routinely prescribed for the treatment of:

Xanax works by calming nervous impulses in the brain caused by firing neurotransmitters. The drug increases the dispersion and flow of GABA, which are natural tranquilizers the body already makes. The drug merely ramps up production of them. This central nervous depressant can cause euphoric feelings, but it typically soothes unruly and out-of-control emotions. Sometimes, it can work a little too well in certain individuals and cause adverse reactions, including depression.

What Is Depression?

Depression is classified as a mental health disorder that involves feelings of worthlessness, despair, lethargy, and a general lack of interest in life among other symptoms. There are different types of depressive disorders, including:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD).
• Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia).
• Anhedonia.
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
• Depressive disorder due to another medical condition.
• Adjustment disorder with depressed mood.

Additionally, individuals with seasonal affective disorder or bipolar disorder may struggle with depression.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, it is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorders in the country. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), depression was the leading cause of disability in the United States.

Psych Central notes the results of one study in which 85 percent of people diagnosed with depression also fit the criteria for generalized anxiety disorder, and 35 percent had signs of co-occurring panic disorder.

Causes of Depression

Depression is a complex mental health disorder. While there is no singular cause of depression, it can happen for a number of reasons, including:

• Chemical or hormone issues.
• Physical, sexual, or mental/emotional abuse.
• Certain medications.
• Conflict.
• Death or loss of a loved one.
• Gender.
• Genetics and family history.
• Major life events, such as a child moving out of the house, job loss, or moving.
• Substance use.

What Is The Relationship Between Xanax and Depression?

Xanax is sometimes used as a frontline treatment for depression. The drug calms electrical activity in the brain, and that can help people feel a sense of euphoria and contentment. However, there are instances in which prolonged use or abuse of Xanax may cause lasting depression even in the absence of its use. In addition, when you have one mental health disorder, it is more likely you will develop others. Thus, those individuals who suffer from anxiety may also develop depression. Therapy, possibly augmented by antidepressant medication, can help.

Can Xanax Cause Depression?

While Xanax misuse may contribute to depression symptoms, it does no necessarily cause hem. Often, symptoms of anxiety can lead to depressive symptoms, too, and Xanax may be prescribed to treat the original symptoms. Depression and anxiety are cited as primary reasons for drug abuse among 63 percent of older adults, per the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence.

While many may begin using these medications in a prescribed fashion to treat their symptoms, those same symptoms may resolve over time but the individuals remain medicated. When they attempt to come off the drug and familiar symptoms return, they assume they still need them, but sometimes, it’s merely that the drug itself, and dependence on it, causes feelings of depression and anxiety to manifest during withdrawal.

Adverse Reactions of Xanax

Common adverse reactions, or side effects, of Xanax include:

• Drowsiness and sedation.
• Dizziness and lightheadedness.
• Confusion and impaired memory.
• Muscle weakness and coordination problems.
• Headache and nausea.

Less common but serious side effects include:

• Depression and suicidal thoughts.
• Paradoxical reactions (e.g., agitation, anxiety, irritability, and aggression).
• Dependence, addiction, and withdrawal.

Depression and Insomnia

Despite depression being frequently associated with excessive sleepiness, insomnia is also a common effect of depression. People with depression often experience trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. This can be due to several factors, including:

• Changes in brain chemistry.
• Racing thoughts.
• Fatigue and low energy levels.
• Anxiety and worry about the future.

Furthermore, insomnia can contribute to depression. Lack of sleep can have a significant impact on mood and emotional regulation. People with insomnia may experience:

• Increased irritability.
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
• Low mood and lack of motivation.
• Increased vulnerability to stress and negative emotions.

Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

If you or someone you care about is living with depression and addiction, getting treatment that addresses both issues at the same time is key. Effective treatment for co-occurring depression and addiction can help you reclaim your life and help you find hope and healing.

Call our helpful, compassionate, and knowledgeable admissions navigators today at to learn about your treatment options and to find co-occurring disorder treatment near you. Recovery is possible, so don’t wait. Pick up the phone today and get back to living the life you deserve.