How Addiction & Mental Health are Connected

Addiction and mental health are deeply connected because of shared underlying factors, brain chemistry alterations, trauma exposure, chronic stress, and co-occurring disorders. Understanding these connections is crucial for effective treatment and support, as it enables healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive approaches that address both conditions.

According to the National Institutes on Drug Abuse’s 2020 study, “Common comorbidities with substance use disorders research report,” individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) are more likely to experience co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Conversely, mental health conditions can also contribute to the development of addiction.

Here are the reasons addiction and mental health are connected:

  • Both addiction and mental health conditions can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
  • Substance use can alter brain chemistry, leading to changes in mood, motivation, and behavior.
  • Traumatic experiences can increase the risk of developing both addiction and mental health conditions.
  • Chronic stress can contribute to the development of addiction and mental health conditions.
  • Many individuals with SUDs also experience co-occurring mental health conditions, making treatment more challenging.

The connection between addiction and mental health is complex and bidirectional, often referred to as dual diagnosis. Treatment for one condition can address the other, necessitating a comprehensive approach that targets both the physical and psychological aspects of these disorders. A comprehensive approach is necessary for effective treatment.

Some other statistics that illustrate the relationship between mental and substance use disorders include:

  • 37 percent of alcohol abusers and 53 percent of drug abusers have also had at least one serious mental illness.
  • Of three million Americans surveyed for having a dual diagnosis, only 1.2 million have received treatment, and only 150,000 received treatment for both disorders.

What Comes First Addiction or Mental Illness?

Both mental illness and addiction often coexist and influence each other. It’s important to know that one disorder doesn’t necessarily always directly cause the other. Alcohol, for example, can make existing depression or anxiety symptoms much worse. However, one disorder can greatly increase your chances of developing the other.

According to the National Institutes on Drug Abuse, 2020 study, ‘Common comorbidities with substance use disorders research report’ about half of individuals with a mental disorder will also develop a substance use disorder (SUD), and vice versa. Among adolescents in community-based substance use treatment programs, over 60 percent meet the criteria for another mental illness. 

Notably, around 1 in 4 individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) also have an SUD, highlighting the significant overlap between these two conditions.

This interplay suggests that while mental illness can lead to substance use as a form of self-medication, addiction can also worsen existing mental health issues, creating a challenging cycle for individuals affected by both disorders

How to Determine If You Have a Dual Diagnosis?

To determine if you have a dual diagnosis, look for signs such as a family history of mental health issues, ongoing feelings of sadness or anxiety when sober, past treatment failures, and reliance on substances to manage difficult emotions. Though it can be challenging to identify a dual diagnosis, there are some general warning signs to look out for.

Signs that you may have a dual diagnosis include:

  • Your family has a history of either mental illness or alcoholism and drug addiction.
  • You feel depressed, anxious, or moody even when you’re sober.
  • You’ve previously been treated for a mental health problem or addiction, and the treatment failed.
  • You use alcohol or drugs to cope with unpleasant feelings or memories.

Call Us for Trauma-Informed Treatment

The Nestled Recovery Center understands the importance of treating mental disorders and addiction simultaneously, which is why we have a special dual diagnosis treatment program for our valued patients. At our facility, our treatment is trauma-informed. If your addiction develops as a coping mechanism, our therapies and services can help you get to the root of your trauma and process it in a healthy and cathartic way. We can also help you develop healthier coping mechanisms so you can adjust to life without relying on alcohol or drugs to get you through the day. Get the personalized attention you need and call our office to learn more.

Call The Nestled Recovery Center today at (702) 299-6406, or fill out our online form to learn more about the therapies we use in our dual diagnosis program.

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If you or a loved one is grappling with addiction, don’t face it alone. The Nestled Recovery Center is here to guide you on the path to recovery. With a compassionate team and a proven approach, we’re dedicated to helping you reclaim your life. Reach out to The Nestled Recovery Center today and take the first step towards a brighter, addiction-free future. Your journey to healing begins with a single call. Please reach out to us today at 702-299-6406 to book your appointment! And start your healing journey at our convenient facility.

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