Depression is a mental health disorder that can cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. The symptoms can be so severe that they limit your ability to function in daily life, affecting work, relationships, and overall well-being. While depression is a common mental health disorder, the condition is also known to be linked to substance abuse.
Can a depressed person go to rehab? Multiple types of rehab for depression exist, including those tailored to individuals with co-occurring substance abuse disorder. The best level of care can help you navigate the complex symptoms of both conditions and regain control over your life.
Take a look at the connection between depression and substance abuse and the best rehabilitation strategies for depressed individuals.
Depression and Rehab Connection
Many individuals who enter a substance abuse rehab program are found to have depression. Depression can both spur substance abuse and be the result of substance abuse. Therefore, the two conditions can be tightly connected. Sometimes, so much so that the symptoms of either condition can be difficult to contribute to only one condition.
Understanding the Link Between Depression and Substance Abuse
Many people who develop an addiction to drugs or alcohol also have underlying mental health disorders. Depression and substance use disorder (SUD) is one of the most prevalent co-occurring scenarios. Research indicates that about 1 in 4 people who have major depressive disorder (MDD) also have SUD.
People who have depression may be as much as twice as likely to self-medicate with substances like drugs or alcohol. For example, they may use substances to soothe emotions, sleep, boost their energy, or even help with their mood. These actions are most common among people who are not getting the mental health care they need to manage depression symptoms.
Over time, self-medicating can lead to higher tolerance of whatever substances are used. Further, people often experience heightened symptoms of depression when they try to stop self-medicating. For example, depression is a common symptom of withdrawal from alcohol, opiates, and other substances.
Impact of Depression on the Recovery Process
When an individual enters a recovery program for SUD, depression can hinder their progress if the mental health issue is not concurrently addressed. Without proper treatment for depression, individuals in recovery may struggle with low motivation and underlying emotional processes that get in the way. This makes it difficult to engage fully in recovery activities.
Additionally, untreated depression can increase the risk of relapse after leaving a rehab program. Individuals may have a severe drive to turn to substances as a way to cope with their depression. This can make it even more difficult for an individual to maintain sobriety.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Options
Effective dual-diagnosis treatment options integrate care for both depression and substance use disorder to ensure comprehensive support. This level of rehabilitation tends to the symptoms of both conditions and can be necessary for successful outcomes. Programs often include a combination of psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Personalized Care for Depressed Individuals in Rehab
While in rehab, depressed individuals must get personalized care. While many people struggle with depression and SUD, how symptoms present and what the individual needs therapeutically can be wholly unique. No cookie-cutter approach will provide the most effective treatment plan.
For this reason, when an individual in rehab also has depression, they must get a thorough mental health evaluation. The care team must have a good understanding of the individual's SUD and depression symptoms and how they affect each other to build the best care plan.
Rehabilitation Strategies for Depressed Individuals
Several rehabilitation strategies may be used for depressed individuals who commit to a rehabilitation program.
Therapy and Counseling Approaches
Various types of counseling and psychotherapy approaches are known to be beneficial for individuals with depression. If substance abuse is a co-occurring condition, these counseling approaches can be tailored to address the interplay between the different conditions.
Evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), are commonly utilized to address depression and SUD. CBT and DBT are beneficial because they equip individuals with practical coping strategies to manage their emotions and reduce the risk of relapses.
Medication Management in Rehab
Medications are usually prescribed to help manage the symptoms of depression. During mental health rehab, these medications will be closely monitored, dispensed, and adjusted as needed.
For example, an individual prescribed antidepressants may have regular assessments to determine their effectiveness. Any potential side effects will also be addressed. This close monitoring ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to the individual's needs and promotes better outcomes during recovery.
Holistic Treatments for Depression
Holistic treatments for depression are common components during recovery programs. The attention to the individual's mind-body connection can be extremely valuable for a successful recovery when depression is involved.
These holistic treatment approaches may include practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, art or music therapy, acupuncture, and nutritional therapy. While the benefits of each type of therapy can vary, most are known to enhance things like stress management, problem-solving skills, self-esteem, and more.
Support Systems and Aftercare Planning
While rehab for depression and SUD can be effective, a good support system and aftercare plan can be vital. Recommended programs may include outpatient therapy, support groups, and ongoing counseling to ensure continued progress. Additionally, aftercare planning often involves connecting individuals with community resources and relapse prevention strategies to maintain their recovery long-term.
Find the Help You Need for Depression and Addiction
Finding the help you need for depression and addiction is essential for recovery. Rehab, especially those focused on dual diagnosis, has proven effective in addressing both mental health and substance use issues. While there can be a stigma surrounding mental health treatment, taking these steps can be the key to regaining control over your well-being and future.
