For many individuals, the path from drug or alcohol addiction to recovery is a challenging journey that often involves more than just the struggle with substances. Many individuals battling addiction also face co-occurring disorders, which are mental health conditions that exist simultaneously with substance use disorders. These intertwined issues require comprehensive approaches to treatment, understanding, and support.
Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders in the Context of Addiction
When an individual has a co-occurring disorder, it means they are diagnosed with a mental health disorder and a drug or alcohol use disorder at the same time. Diagnosing co-occurring disorders is crucial, as they often exacerbate substance use issues and make recovery more challenging. Integrated treatment that simultaneously addresses addiction and mental health conditions is the most effective approach, helping to tackle the root causes and symptoms of both issues.
Anxiety Disorders and Their Impact on Addiction Recovery
There are high rates of substance use disorder co-occurring with anxiety disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. The heightened state of anxiety often exacerbates cravings for substances, complicating efforts to maintain sobriety.
It’s often hard to determine which came first: the anxiety or the addiction. However, they both influence each other, with people using substances to help with anxiety or experiencing increased anxiety because of their level of substance use. Regardless of which came first, the disorders are best treated simultaneously, and medication for anxiety may be key in helping a client overcome addiction.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Substance Use Disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently drives individuals toward substance use as a coping mechanism to manage the distressing symptoms associated with past trauma. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, characterized by intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and heightened anxiety, can make it incredibly challenging for individuals to maintain sobriety without comprehensive support.
When people with PTSD turn to drugs or alcohol to numb emotional pain, they create a destructive cycle of dependence and worsening mental health. Integrated treatment plans that address both post-traumatic stress disorder and substance addiction are crucial for lasting recovery.
Depression: A Common Co-Occurring Disorder
Depression often manifests alongside substance use disorders, presenting a significant obstacle in the path to recovery. Individuals grappling with depression may turn to drugs or alcohol in an attempt to mitigate their depressive symptoms, which can lead to a worsening cycle of both conditions.
This self-medication strategy is particularly dangerous, as the temporary relief offered by substances often worsens the underlying depression over time.
The Link Between Bipolar Disorder and Substance Use Disorder
Bipolar disorder is marked by extreme mood swings that range from manic highs to depressive lows, and these fluctuations can significantly impact an individual’s likelihood of a substance use disorder (formerly known as substance abuse.) During manic episodes, individuals may engage in risky behaviors, including excessive substance use, as a way to amplify the euphoric feelings or cope with irritability and agitation.
Conversely, during depressive episodes, substances may be used as a form of self-medication to alleviate feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or fatigue. This cyclical pattern creates a complex and challenging environment for recovery. Individuals with bipolar disorder often experience a heightened sensitivity to stress, which can trigger both mood swings and substance use.
Personality Disorders and Drug or Alcohol Addiction
Personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder or antisocial personality disorder, significantly impact the dynamics of substance use disorders. These disorders often lead to abnormal behaviors and emotional dysfunction, making individuals more susceptible to substance abuse as a means of coping with their symptoms.
People with borderline personality disorder may use drugs or alcohol to manage intense emotions, fear of abandonment, or feelings of emptiness. Those with antisocial personality disorder might engage in substance use as part of their impulsive and risk-taking behaviors. The presence of a personality disorder can complicate addiction treatment, as it requires addressing deep-seated patterns of thinking and behavior.
Do You Need Help?
A treatable, chronic disease, drug or alcohol addiction can affect anyone. If you or someone you care about struggles with addiction or a co-occurring disorder, the skilled professionals at Canyon Vista Recovery Center are here to help. Located in Mesa, Arizona, our team of caring specialists will provide you with the skills you need to regain control of your life. Take the first step. Contact us today.
