Investigating the nature of depressive experiences in adults who self-medicate low mood with alcohol

•A one-factor model of depression was supported.•Experiences of suicidality were more likely to be endorsed by people who self-medicated, compared to those who do not use alcohol in this way.•Appetite difficulties were less likely to be reported by those who self-medicated, compared to those who did not.•Findings indicate that those who self-medicate are at a higher risk for suicidality, given the same level of depression.