Mental health disorders and substance abuse are both complex issues. However, when the two occur at the same time, proper diagnosis and treatment grow even more complicated.
Unfortunately, the strong connection between mental health and substance abuse disorders is commonly overlooked. The result can be devastating for an individual who can face greater challenges and worsened symptoms with either condition.
Early intervention with the most appropriate levels of treatment is the key to negating as much damage as possible. However, undiagnosed mental issues commonly leave a large part of the substance abuse picture unattended during treatment.
Certain mental health conditions are more likely to co-occur with substance abuse than others. Understanding these connections plays a vital role in proper diagnosis and addressing the issue appropriately.
The Prevalence of Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders and Substance Abuse
Research indicates that over one-third of adults with substance use disorder (SUD) also have a mental disorder. When a mental health issue is not properly diagnosed, an individual can have an even harder time overcoming addiction. In most cases, symptoms of the mental disorder can worsen substance-using behaviors.
For example, individuals with untreated depression may find it even harder to stop using substances because their depression symptoms drive them to use. Likewise, someone with anxiety may have a more difficult time maintaining sobriety after treatment because their anxiety symptoms can drive drug-seeking behaviors.
To make matters worse, using substances can even exacerbate the underlying mental illness. This can create a never-ending cycle of abuse that can lead to devastating outcomes.
Common Mental Health Disorders Tied to Substance Abuse
All types of mental illness can mean a greater risk of substance abuse. However, certain illnesses are more likely to be tied to substance abuse than others. Understanding these relationships is vital for effective intervention and treatment.
1. Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders encompass a spectrum of illnesses, including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and social phobia. Anxiety disorders are also the most prevalent mental health disorders in the U.S. However, anxiety is also most likely to co-occur with substance use disorders.
While many mental illnesses are often caused by substance abuse, anxiety disorders are more likely to occur before addiction. In one study, 75 percent of people experienced anxiety symptoms before abusing substances. This is a strong indicator that untreated anxiety can lead to a tendency to self-medicate, which may lead to addiction.
2. Depression
Roughly 18 percent of U.S. adults are diagnosed with depression at some point in their lifetime. Depression symptoms can undeniably lead a person to use drugs or alcohol as a means of coping.
However, depression is also commonly a symptom of substance abuse. Specifically, many people who struggle with alcoholism develop depression through long-term use. Therefore, it can be difficult to determine which illness came first, SUD or depression.
3. Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, is known to affect about 4.4 percent of U.S. adults at some point in life. Marked by drastic mood and energy-level shifts, bipolar disorder can be exceptionally difficult to deal with. Therefore, self-medicating is not uncommon.
SUD is very common among people who have bipolar disorder. Studies indicate that at least 40 percent of individuals with bipolar disorder have dealt with a substance abuse issue in their lifetime.
4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a common mental health disorder that affects individuals who have experienced traumatic events. The condition can bring about everything from heightened reactions to certain stressors to severe anxiety and depression. Unfortunately, PTSD is one of the highest risk factors for developing a substance abuse problem.
The overall estimates of co-occurring substance abuse disorder and PTSD can vary. However, some studies state that the prevalence may be as high as almost half of people with SUD also have PTSD.
Additional Mental Health Disorders Associated with Substance Abuse
While the top four mental health disorders are most likely to be connected to SUD, other conditions can easily be linked. Recognizing these connections is essential for effective treatment and addressing the complex relationship between mental health and substance abuse.
Personality Disorders
Personality disorders, such as borderline or antisocial personality disorder, can lead to impulsive behaviors and emotional instability. Individuals may turn to substances as a coping mechanism, further complicating their relationships and life situations. This can perpetuate a cycle of substance use and exacerbate symptoms of the underlying disorder.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia, often co-occur with substance abuse. Individuals may use drugs or alcohol to control weight, suppress appetite, or cope with body image issues. This dual struggle can lead to severe health complications and increased difficulty in recovery for both conditions.
Psychotic Disorders
Psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, can lead to a distorted sense of reality. The symptoms can prompt some individuals to self-medicate with substances, but psychotic disorders can also be a result of substance abuse. Substance use may also mask underlying psychotic disorder issues, making effective intervention challenging.
Co-occurring Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorders Require Comprehensive Care
Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD are all closely linked to substance abuse disorder. If you struggle with both a mental health and substance abuse disorder, comprehensive treatment is vital when you choose to seek help. Without addressing the underlying mental health condition, achieving sobriety can be difficult.
While co-occurring disorders can be more of a challenge to treat, you can recover. Seeking help and support from the most well-equipped treatment provider can be a life-altering decision. This could be the choice that positions you on the best path to a sober, happy future.
