Individuals with mental health disorders also have a higher chance of having a substance use disorder than other people do — and this isn’t just a coincidence. The coexistence of both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition is known as a co-occurring disorder, and both problems can worsen each other.
For further information on mental illness and its relations with substance abuse disorders, here is an overview of co-occurring mental health disorders.
Common Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders
- Depression
- Bipolar Disorder
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Eating Disorders
- Schizophrenia
- And Other Mental Health Disorders
Possible Substance Abuse Problems in Co-Occurring Disorders
- Alcohol Use Disorder
- Drug Addiction
- Prescription Drug Abuse
- Nicotine Addiction
- Misuse of anabolic steroids for performance enhancement
How Co-Occurring Disorders Compound Each Other
The Impact of Substance Abuse on Mental Disorders
Drugs and alcohol can do more than cause various mental health issues. Ongoing and frequent substance usage can cause the brain to undergo changes, which makes them more susceptible to developing a co-occurring disorder.
Beyond the physiological effects, substance abuse often contributes to environmental factors that intensify mental health issues. For instance, drug and alcohol abuse may disrupt relationships, employment, and overall stability, further complicating the landscape of mental health. As such, addressing the intersection of substance abuse and mental health is vital for effective treatment and recovery, emphasizing the importance of integrated mental health services.
The Impact of Mental Health on Substance Abuse
In addition, mental illnesses can put individuals at higher risk of substance abuse disorder. For example, those struggling with mental health conditions may use drugs as a means to alleviate and ease their symptoms — this can eventually lead to them self-medicating and abusing substances to feel better.
The presence of psychiatric disorders can create a vulnerability to drug and alcohol abuse, making it essential to consider mental health issues in the context of substance abuse treatment. Therefore, an integrated approach that recognizes the bidirectional relationship between substance use and mental health is fundamental for breaking the cycle and promoting sustainable recovery.
Where Do Co-Occurring Disorders Come From?
Co-occurring disorders can potentially arise from environmental factors, such as traumatic life experiences. Trauma — including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — can significantly contribute to both a substance abuse problem and a mental disorder. In addition, genetic factors may increase susceptibility to developing certain mental illnesses and substance use disorders.
Understanding the intricate connections between genetics and environmental influences is crucial in tailoring effective dual diagnosis treatment. Recognizing the role of trauma and genetics in co-occurring disorders underscores the importance of holistic interventions that address both mental health and substance abuse, promoting a more comprehensive and personalized approach to recovery.
Treating a Co-Occurring Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorder
While determining which co-occurring disorder came first can be difficult, treatment programs are nevertheless effective. At Solstice Counseling, we offer a variety of programs and individualized treatment options to help patients overcome their various substance abuse and addiction struggles.
For more information and to take our alcohol use and disorders identification test, contact us today.