Can alcohol act as an antidepressant?

Alcohol may temporarily elevate mood and provide a feeling of relaxation, which can create the illusion of acting as an antidepressant. However, it is not a viable treatment for depression and can actually worsen symptoms over time. Chronic alcohol use is associated with increased risk of depression and can lead to dependency and other health issues. It's important to seek professional help for managing depression rather than relying on alcohol.