Substance use disorders (SUD) often occur with underlying mental health issues. Further, people in pain from trauma or mental health disorders seek out ways to treat themselves and heal their pain using substances.
Yet, mental health and substance use disorders can appear together due to shared causes. Therefore, people who actively engage in recovery and have a program that addresses mental health and SUD have a greater chance of recovery.
The Relationship Between Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
Underlying mental health disorders can drive a person to use substances to cope. Likewise, using substances regularly can perpetuate symptoms related to an underlying mental health disorder. No matter which comes first, each will have a negative effect on the other.
Psychological and Physical Problems
Long-term substance use changes the brain’s chemistry, thus intensifying symptoms of addiction and mental health disorders. Therefore when addiction takes over, it increases the risk of developing psychological and physical problems. Signs that addiction is driving an individual include:
- Cravings substances
- Developing a tolerance to substances
- Risky behavior such as driving while under the influence
- Loss of motivation to participate in activities once enjoyed
- Work-related issues such as calling out on a regular basis
The quality of one’s mental health also suffers under the weight of addiction. Signs that addiction is hindering the quality of mental health include:
- Mood swings
- Feeling anger
- Isolating oneself
- Neglecting daily responsibilities
- Thoughts of self-harm
Treat Disorders Simultaneously
People who have an addiction disorder and a mental health disorder have symptoms that are difficult to treat. Therefore, finding the right treatment can be very difficult. It is important to find a treatment center that understands that when a mental health and substance use disorder are present, this is known as a co-occurring disorder.
It is important to treat all conditions simultaneously. Doing so will improve one’s quality of life. Some approaches to care might include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Trauma-informed care
- Medication
- Individual and Group Therapy
- Peer support
At The Guest House, we believe that identifying the underlying issues contributing to substance use is essential for finding the best diagnosis and treatment. When co-occurring disorders are not sufficiently treated, it can undermine your sobriety and success in treatment. If you are diagnosed with a co-occurring disorder, you will need an integrated approach to care. We provide treatment that will help you develop healthy ways to manage mental health and substance use disorder to lead to a successful recovery. To get started, reach out to us today by calling (855) 483-7800.