The Association Between Frequency of Alcohol Use and Depression in Adolescents vs. Young Adults

Live Poster Session: https://wesleyan.zoom.us/j/93991955122

Leo Backes

Leo Backes is a member of the class of 2028 at Wesleyan University. He is studying sociology, and is also passionate about agriculture and sustainability, taking a prominent role in Wesleyan’s Long Lane Farm, as well as the College of Environment.

Abstract: This study examines the relationship between frequency of alcohol use and past-year depressive episodes among adolescents (ages 12–17) and young adults (ages 18–25). Using data from the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH; n = 70,241), logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess whether age moderates this association. Results indicate a significant positive relationship between alcohol use frequency and the likelihood of a depressive episode for both age groups. However, this association is significantly stronger among adolescents than young adults.

lb-qac-final-poster-2