The Link Between Mental Health and Substance Abuse is Strong

Treating substance abuse is a difficult task because mental health issues typically accompany it. Mental health and substance abuse affect each other in several ways. In the field of addiction, experts call this dual diagnosis. At Beaches Recovery, we understand the unique connection between mental health and substance abuse. Often, individuals begin abusing drugs or alcohol to self-medicate for an unknown mental health issue like depression or anxiety. To heal and recover from the disease of addiction requires the mental and physical sides of addiction are addressed.

The Link Between Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Both addiction and mental health issues have their unique symptoms. However, they often influence each other since they both deal with a chemical imbalance in the brain. Substance abuse can lead to mental health problems. However, studies also show that a mental health problem may spur on a substance abuse disorder.

The main concern for people with dual diagnosis is how dangerous the condition is. Since these two issues feed on each other, the problem tends to worsen and is more difficult to combat. Also, people with mental health issues are more likely to relapse after receiving addiction treatment if their mental health issues aren’t treated. At Beaches Recovery, our dual diagnosis treatment treats both conditions simultaneously to lower the risk of relapse and give patients the resources they need to make a lasting recovery.

How Common Is Dual Diagnosis?

Studies show that about one-third of people with mental illness have a substance abuse problem. Similarly, about one-third of people who abuse drugs have a mental illness. In some cases, mental illness occurs as a result of substance abuse. And in others, substance abuse begins as self-medication for mental illness. Both need to be addressed in addiction treatment.

Men are more likely to have mental health and substance abuse problems. Despite this, many women suffer from dual diagnosis as well. Furthermore, certain types of people are more likely to suffer from this condition. For example, former military personnel has a higher risk for dual diagnosis, perhaps from experiencing trauma.

Signs That You May Need Dual Diagnosis Therapy

Just like with any drug abuse problem, a dual diagnosis has its signs and symptoms. Only an expert can diagnose this issue because many of its symptoms manifest in other disorders. Some common signs and symptoms of dual diagnosis include:

• Withdrawing from society
• Sudden and abrupt changes in behavior
• Combining dangerous drugs
• Loss of control when using drugs
• Developing a tolerance for certain drugs

Beyond these symptoms, some physical signs are apparent as well. For example, people with dual diagnosis often experience weight gain. They may also have bloodshot eyes or tremors. When these signs accompany symptoms from the list above, warning flags should go up.

Beaches Recovery Can Help You With Your Substance Abuse Problem

Don’t let your substance abuse problem control your life. At Beaches Recovery, our experts will create a unique recovery plan that fits your needs. The plan will likely include a variation of our many addiction treatment services. Some of the programs that we offer at Beaches Recovery include:

• Inpatient or residential treatment
• Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
• Outpatient treatment
• Aftercare

No matter what program is determined most suitable for patients, all of our treatments involve a variety of therapeutic options such as:

• Family therapy
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Individual therapy
• Group therapy

Get the help that you need for your mental health and substance abuse problem at Beaches Recovery. Don’t let addiction rule your life any longer. Today is a great day to start anew. Call 866.605.0532. Reach out now.