The results of this study do not show (as suggested by the title) that moderate alcohol prevents depression. To the contrary, this study showed that profound changes can occur in the brain (reduced neurogenesis) and mood (depression-like symptoms) weeks after moderate alcohol exposure. Similar effects are seen after heavy drinking in alcoholics who report that negative affect is a primary reason they start drinking again. Thus, this study shows that pathological conditions that exist in alcoholism may begin early in a person's drinking history – even after moderate use. Using alcohol to alleviate a negative mood state is dangerous and could lead to addiction.