HIQA systematic review finds alcohol consumption linked to depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation (hiqa.ie)

• HIQA systematic review finds alcohol consumption linked to increased depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation
• Review commissioned by Department of Health to update Ireland's low-risk alcohol guidelines
• Consistent evidence across adults and adolescents for depression and suicidal ideation; anxiety less consistent
• 73% of Irish adults consumed alcohol in the past year (2024)
• Review recommends reducing alcohol consumption as a public health priority

"HIQA published a systematic review on alcohol consumption and mental health, commissioned by the Department of Health to inform updated low-risk alcohol guidelines. The review found consistent evidence that higher alcohol consumption is associated with increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation in adults and adolescents. It notes that 73% of Irish adults consumed alcohol in the past year (2024) and recommends reducing alcohol consumption as a public health priority."