Addiction can be difficult to understand as it happens for many reasons. Understanding how drug addiction and depression go hand-in-hand can learn how to better support loved ones who are struggling.
Linking Addiction and Depression
Many ways exist in how addition and depression coincide. Self-medicating is one way in which people attempt to mitigate symptoms of depression, particularly with alcohol. Some of the following are underlying causes as to why depression and addiction may occur:
- Environmental factors such as where a person lives or the type of people surrounding the individual.
- Chemical imbalances in the brain can impact a person’s susceptibility to depression or addiction
- Underlying genetic factors within a family history
Drug and alcohol use seem to make mental health issues worse over time, rather than better. A person may initially feel better after drinking a few glasses of wine but the initial amount will not be enough over time and can lead to dependence. Many people experience depressive symptoms shortly following drug or alcohol use which builds a routine of using drugs to feel better.
Benefits of Treatment
People who suffer from co-occurring substance use disorder and mental health issues often benefit from attending a good treatment program. Many rehabilitation facilities focus on diagnosing a person for both addiction and mental health disorders. Individualized plans will be developed to help diagnose all the issues and develop a plan for recovery. This may involve a combination of counseling, mild, non-narcotic medication or a variety of other treatments to support the individual through detox, sobriety and positive mental health.
Drug rehab and depression treatment help individuals with addiction learn how to cope without the use of substances. The road to recovery is long and difficult but necessary in order to live a clean life free of drugs and alcohol. Facilities who specialize in co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders are able to help persons with addiction detox in a safe, comfortable environment away from environmental triggers. Once detox ends, treatment begins to identify underlying causes of use to support long-term recovery.
Moving Forward
Individuals interested in receiving treatment for co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders will experience a positive, affirming environment focused on being healthy. Counseling, therapeutic support, individual and group support groups and even family therapy may be part of the process of helping an individual cope with depression and addiction. In addition, medication may be used in treatment and aftercare which will need to be monitored by a treating physician in order to make sure no transfer of addiction occurs and the person receives the best support possible.
Although it may feel challenging to deal with addiction and depression, there is help available. The Villa can talk to you about our unique programs which focus on the treating the whole person in a safe, comfortable environment that provides support for recovery. Call us to get started.
