Understanding Why Mental Health Disorders and Substance Abuse So Often Go Hand in Hand

Mental health conditions and addiction are both complicated disorders and if left untreated, serious complications can occur.  Trauma, genetics, and environmental factors all play a role in the development of both addiction and substance abuse so it comes as no surprise that one usually occurs alongside the other. 

Facts About Mental Health and Addiction

Research has shown that nearly half of the estimated 17.5 million Americans who struggle with substance use also have a co-occurring mental health condition.  Despite roughly half of those people not receiving treatment for their co-occurring condition, addiction rehab admissions have increased rapidly over the course of several years.  Prescription opioids have contributed to the steady increase in addiction treatment because they are incredibly addictive and relatively easy to obtain.

3 Reasons Behind Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders

1. Many of the risk factors that increase the chances of someone developing a substance use disorder can also contribute to new mental health conditions.
2. Mental health conditions, and the painful emotions that accompany them, often drive people to drugs or alcohol as a way to numb what they are feeling.
3. Substance abuse can cause some mental health conditions such as Depression or Anxiety.

Recognizing Mental Health Conditions that Commonly Occur Alongside Addiction

Nearly a quarter all adults struggling with substance abuse have one or more of these conditions:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Personality disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder or Bipolar
• Schizophrenia
• PTSD

Signs and Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder

Substance abuse changes the way the neurotransmitters in our brains send and receive signals, resulting in changes to personalities and physical appearance.  When considering if someone you love has a substance use disorder, here are some signs to look for:

Physical signs of substance abuse:

• Slurred speech, shaking
• Smelling of alcohol or drugs
• Lack of proper hygiene
• Rapid, unexplained weight loss or gain
• Pinpoint pupils or bloodshot eyes
• Nodding off during conversations
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Seeming disoriented

Behavioral signs of substance abuse:

• Getting in legal trouble
• Stealing from friends and family
• Job loss
• Mood swings and irritability
• Driving while under the influence
• Unexplained financial issues
• Periods of euphoria
• Loss of interest in things that were once important

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders at The Source

The Source’s unique approach to treating co-occurring conditions has made them a premier addiction treatment facility.  They are now certified by the Florida Addiction Recovery Residences for providing exception care!  The Source believes that addiction is usually the end result of a life filled with trauma or untreated mental health conditions, so treatment is heavily focused on processing and treating these conditions along with the addiction.  Clients will receive a variety of different therapies to address trauma and help equip them with the tools they can use to help cope with difficult emotions and situations. 

The Source has several levels of care, from inpatient to intensive outpatient programs to ensure that everyone has access to the appropriate care they need.  Each client will be connected with a mentor who is in their own sober journey to provide additional support from someone who understands what they have been through and the range of emotions that come with it.  At The Source, you will be welcomed like family by their knowledgeable and experienced staff who strive to make your experience a pleasant and life-changing one.  For more information about The Source please call us at (800)204-0418 or online at www.thesourcetreatmentcenter.com.