Anyone struggling with depression and substance abuse simultaneously needs compassionate help rather than judgmental criticism. Unfortunately, the negative stigma surrounding depression and substance abuse often means those with substance use disorder (SUD) are less likely to get the support they need. Furthermore, the general misunderstanding of how these two conditions interact makes it harder for people with both disorders to get the support they require.
Causes of Depression and Substance Abuse
Several factors contribute to the onset of depression and substance abuse. The most common reasons for the comorbidity of these two disorders are discussed below.
Genetics
If one or both of your parents had SUD or depression, you are at a higher risk of developing both disorders. There is a proven genetic connection between both depression and alcoholism. This means you are more likely to develop both if you have a family history of either condition.
Stress
Both depression and substance abuse can be a response to high levels of stress. You may use alcohol or drugs as an escape or distraction from your daily pressures. This makes your issues harder to treat.
Coping Strategies
Your substance use may be an unhealthy coping strategy for your depression. You may use alcohol or drugs to self-medicate and numb negative emotions like sadness, anxiety, and stress.
Brain Chemistry Imbalances
Substance abuse impacts your brain’s chemical balance. This can lead to depression as a side effect of substance abuse.
Concerns With Depression and Substance Abuse
When someone struggles with depression and substance abuse, treatment and recovery can be more challenging. Some of the most common concerns regarding comorbid depression and substance abuse are described below.
Premature Death
People who struggle with both substance abuse and depression have a higher risk of premature death than those who only have one disorder.
Poor Treatment Outcomes
Research shows that people who have both depression and SUDs tend to have worse treatment outcomes than those who only have one disorder. You may have a harder time staying sober and managing your mood if you have both conditions.
Harder to Identify
If you have more than one mental health disorder, you may have more difficulty identifying your symptoms. This can lead to more self-destructive behavior, which puts you at greater risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation.
Treatment for Depression and Substance Abuse
Millions of people are affected by depression, and many of them also struggle with substance abuse. These two disorders often go hand in hand. If you think you have both, you should seek help as soon as possible.
Depression and substance abuse can be treated at the same time. Getting the right combination of therapies can help you live a better life. There are many ways to get help. If you are battling substance abuse and depression, you are not alone. There are treatments available for these conditions, and you can find healing with the right support.
If you are struggling with depression and substance abuse at the same time, you need help from a team of professionals. You cannot heal properly without a plan that tackles both disorders simultaneously. If you suspect that you have both disorders, it is important to be honest with your loved ones and professional mental health team. They can help you get the right combination of therapies and support to improve your mental health. Call The Guest House at (855) 483-7800 today for more information.