Addiction and Mental Health
Addiction and mental health are closely intertwined issues that can have a profound impact on an individual’s overall well-being. When someone struggles with addiction, it can often be a symptom of a deeper mental health issue, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma . Conversely, mental health conditions can also contribute to the development of addiction.
The Science Behind Addiction’s Impact on Mental Health
Substance use directly impacts the brain, causing changes in its structure and functioning over time [1]. These changes can disrupt cognition, memory, impulse control, and decision-making, potentially impacting a person’s mental health. Additionally, the negative consequences of addiction, such as job loss, failed relationships, financial hardship, custody battles, or legal problems, can cause someone to feel anxious or depressed.
The Connection Between Addiction and Mental Illness
Addiction often goes hand-in-hand with other mental illnesses. Individuals who experience a substance use disorder during their lives may also experience another co-occurring mental disorder and vice versa [2]. For many people, drug and alcohol problems begin as self-medication: using substances to cope with temporary stress or to manage symptoms of chronic mental health problems they may not even know they have.
Dual Diagnosis: When Addiction and Mental Health Conditions Co-Occur
When a substance use disorder co-occurs with a mental health disorder, the condition is referred to as a dual diagnosis [1]. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about 17 million Americans experienced a dual diagnosis in 2020. Symptoms of a dual diagnosis are as diverse as the possible combinations of disorders, but what most dual diagnoses do have in common is the severity of the symptoms.
Treatment Protocols for Co-Occurring Disorders
If you have co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, it is essential to find a treatment provider that understands the complexities of dual diagnosis treatment [1]. A comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment program should include:
Withdrawal management
Individual psychotherapy
Medication management
Group therapy
12 Step program
Psychosocial education and life skills
Holistic treatment
Relapse prevention planning
Nutrition and exercise
Conclusion
Addiction and mental health are complex issues that require a comprehensive and integrated approach to treatment. By understanding the connection between addiction and mental health, we can better address the needs of individuals struggling with these conditions. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and mental health issues, it is essential to seek help from a qualified treatment provider.
