People with mental health conditions often turn to substance abuse. It’s also true that individuals who have substance abuse issues often end up with mental health disorders. Despite that, most people don’t get the help they need for both conditions. That means you have individuals forced to cope with a co-occurring disorder, where they’re struggling from the effects of addiction and mental illness. Understanding the connection between mental illness and addiction gives us more insight into how we can better serve those who require mental health treatment for co-occurring disorders.
Why Mental Illness and Addiction Often Go Hand-in-Hand
People who admit themselves to addiction treatment often struggle with underlying mental conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety. While it’s often hard to determine which condition caused the other, one can make the symptoms of the other illness worse.
One of the struggles of treating mental illness and substance use disorders is that both are often misunderstood. Individuals with mood disorders may be told they need to get it together or have a more positive attitude. Individuals with an addiction may be blamed and shunned for their illness.
Mental illness and addiction are both chronic brain disorders that affect how we think and behave. That’s due to the changes both illnesses make to the brain. Those who struggle with these conditions stop functioning the way they did before and have to relearn what was lost during treatment for co-occurring disorders.
Through treatment, it’s possible to find ways to manage these conditions. Long-term recovery is possible through dual diagnosis treatment programs.
Why It’s Difficult to Diagnose Co-Occurring Disorders
There’s nothing simple about mental illness or substance use disorders. Treating one condition can be complicated. Both can produce overlapping symptoms that make it hard for some professionals to recognize what’s happening with a client.
That can lead to a client receiving help for depression without getting treatment for prescription drug addiction. Individuals who fail to receive the full spectrum of care required for both diseases can be more likely to relapse.
People with a co-occurring disorder may be more likely to participate in risky behavior. That includes driving while intoxicated or getting into violent altercations. The longer an individual goes without comprehensive treatment, the harder it can be for that person to achieve recovery.
Treating Co-Occurring Disorders
The biggest step in getting help for individuals who struggle with both mental illness and addiction starts with a correct diagnosis. Clients who admit themselves to treatment for one condition should receive a complete evaluation for any potential physical or mental issues. Some common signs that you might have an untreated co-occurring disorder include:
- Turning to drugs or alcohol to suppress unpleasant memories
- Using substances when you feel depressed or anxious
- Have a family history of substance abuse or mental illness
- Previously received treatment for an addiction or mental health problem
Taking an integrated care approach often works best for clients with a dual diagnosis in Florida. Therapists address issues pertaining to substance abuse and mental illness at the same time. It becomes less about figuring out what came first and more about helping you get to a state of recovery for both conditions.
Find Help For Mental Illness and Addiction at Coalition Recovery
Coalition Recovery prides itself on the care it takes with each client. It’s essential that we understand the full scope of their issues to provide them with the proper care. Our services and programs include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Accelerated resolution therapy
- Amino acid therapy
- Nutrition and wellness
If you’re having trouble managing addiction or mental health issues, reach out to our team today at 888.707.2873, or contact us online.
