Substance use disorders (SUD) and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are closely linked, but one doesn't necessarily cause the other. People often abuse alcohol or drugs to ease the symptoms of an undiagnosed mental disorder, or to cope with difficult emotions. When someone suffers from both addiction and a mental health issue, doctors call the disorders “co-occurring.”
The Connection Between Mental Illness and Addiction
The link between substance use disorders and mental health conditions has been studied extensively and the two co-occur with surprising frequency. Individuals who have both diagnoses are commonly referred to as being “dual diagnosis” patients.
Research from a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services report showed that individuals with co-occurring substance use issues and mental health problems far exceed common expectations. The report uncovered the following data:
Approximately 50% of persons with severe mental disorders struggle with a substance use disorder
37% of alcohol abusers and 53% of drug abusers also live with at least one serious mental illness
29% of all people diagnosed with a mental disorder use alcohol or drugs inappropriately
Having a co-occurring disorder produces certain symptoms that affect a person’s ability to fulfill their responsibilities. It can affect their studies, job, or personal relationships. When a mental health disorder goes untreated, a co-occurring substance abuse problem usually gets worse. The reverse is also true. When alcohol or drug abuse increases, mental health problems increase too. For instance, a person with an untreated mental health disorder may abuse alcohol and drugs to deal with stress, anxiety, and a lack of self-worth.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, other co-occurring mental health issues that are associated with substance abuse include ADHD, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia. The most severe kinds of mental illness, including schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), can cause a person to become addicted to drugs or alcohol because those diagnosed with these conditions seek an escape from the symptoms that substances can provide. It is not uncommon for people with depression or anxiety to experience overwhelming emotions, so they turn to drugs or alcohol to ease their symptoms.
Diagnosing a Co-occurring Disorder
Some types of mental health conditions can increase the likelihood of developing an addiction. Some SUD can contribute to the symptoms of mental health disorders. For example, if someone is under severe stress, or lives with severe emotional distress or fear, he or she may turn to alcohol to relieve their symptoms. Similarly, someone with a major depressive disorder may turn to alcohol to manage stress or cope with the disorder.
Despite the high number of comorbidity between substance use disorders and mental illness, the correlation doesn't necessarily imply a mechanism of causality. Psychologists agree these three elements contribute to the fact that these disorders often occur together.
#1. Common risk factors often contribute to both mental illness and substance use and mental illness.
#2. Mental illness may contribute to substance abuse addiction.
#3. Substance abuse can contribute to the existence of mental illness.
Finally, substance use disorders and mental illnesses are both caused by overlapping factors. These factors include genetic predispositions and environmental influences like stress or trauma.
Signs of Common Co-occurring Disorders
The specific symptoms of a co-occurring disorder can vary widely, even within a single disorder. That is why it's difficult to describe a standard list of symptoms. The following list might reflect the symptoms of co-occurring disorders:
Heightened irritability or anger
Violent or aggressive behavior
Disorganized thinking or inability to focus
Insomnia or excessive sleep
A lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Decreased energy
Resistance to work or attend school
Withdrawal from family and friends
Conduct disturbances such as an argument or fighting
The Importance of Treatment
Both addiction and mental illness have serious consequences, so it's important to seek help from a professional as soon as possible. Mental health treatment options can include regular outpatient therapy sessions, inpatient treatment, self-help groups, or medication. Find a treatment center that offers a therapeutic experience that addresses both conditions at the same time. Some facilities can work with a primary care physician to help people manage their co-occurring disorder for their aftercare. If the treatment isn't tailored to address both conditions, it leaves the patient at a greater risk of developing issues in the future. They may not get the relief they need from either.
Mental illness and substance use disorders often develop during adolescence, and people who develop problems earlier typically have a greater risk for severe problems as adults. Evidence-based prevention interventions can help reduce the impact of risk factors, preventing these mental, emotional, and behavioral problems among youth.
Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have similar underlying, brain-based pathologies. Sometimes, people with mental illness are more likely to develop a dependence on drugs or alcohol. However, the connection between mental illness and substance abuse is more complex than simple causality. Strong genetic links, environmental factors, stress, physical trauma, and poor coping skills play a role in both disorders. The specific symptoms of a co-occurring disorder can vary widely, even within a single disorder, which is why it's difficult to describe a standard list of symptoms. If you are concerned that your loved one or you might struggle with both a SUD and a mental health disorder, Monte Cristo Recovery can help. Call us at (714) 824-9896. We can help you assess the severity of your or your loved one's problems and develop a plan to address both conditions. Let us help you live a thriving life.