Substance abuse and mental health issues typically exacerbate one another when left untreated. Therefore, understanding the relationship between substance abuse and mental health disorders can help you successfully identify the root causes of concern. Additionally, substance abuse can cause or amplify certain mood disorders such as depression. Identifying the root causes of both substance abuse and mental health conditions can maximize the potential of a successful long-term recovery.
Have you or a loved one questioned whether or not substance abuse can cause depression or other mental health conditions? If so, seeking professional support can help ease your concern and provide you with comprehensive care that will restore the overall quality of your life. Washington’s premier mental health treatment and rehab facility, Bayview Recovery, can help you or your loved one build a better life. Our comprehensive mental health treatment has helped countless individuals overcome difficult circumstances and advance their lives in recovery. Our talented staff can help you too, so call 855.478.3650 today to get started.
Can Substance Abuse Cause Depression?
Many people use alcohol or drugs to manage painful symptoms of depression, such as hopelessness. However, abusing substances that possess depressant properties can intensify sadness and create depression over time.
Using substances to alter moods can cause addiction cycles that are difficult to overcome without proper treatment. Fortunately, comprehensive care is available to you in Tacoma at Bayview Recovery.
Patients who have co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders require individualized treatment for managing and improving symptoms. Depression is one of the most common mental health issues occurring today. Symptoms typically include:
- Restlessness
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Hopelessness
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Changes in appetite and sleeping patterns
- Persistently sad or anxious
- Suicidal thoughts
Mental health issues occurring with substance abuse increasingly impair physical and emotional health. Alcohol or drugs may seem to improve uneasy feelings at the moment, but abusing substances is detrimental to your long-term health. Therefore, symptoms of depression can most certainly occur in people who struggle with substance use disorder.
Substance Abuse and Depression
Addiction to substances can alter the chemical balance in your brain that directly affects your mood and well-being. Compulsively seeking substances to avoid feelings can become a dangerous cycle that is difficult to control. To successfully recover from substance abuse and depression, seeking treatment is essential.
At Bayview Recovery, our dual diagnosis treatment program evaluates each aspect of the co-occurring disorders and creates a personalized program adhering to your specific needs. Our skilled staff treats your disorders and their related problems through a range of approaches, such as:
- Addressing both substance abuse and mental health disorders simultaneously
- Developing strategies for change, such as setting goals
- Education about your specific conditions and circumstances
- Teaching healthy coping strategies that help effectively manage mental health and prevent relapsing
The integrated approach we offer at Bayview Recovery in our dual diagnosis program is beneficial in ensuring a successful recovery. Remember that substance abuse and mental health disorders are treatable. Moreover, committing to a program that holds your best interest and well-being at the core of its purpose can motivate you to remain on the right track long after you leave treatment.
Washington’s Premier Drug Rehab and Mental Wellness Center
Bayview Recovery’s full continuum of care can help you achieve relief through recovery. Our mental health staff is licensed and accredited and will make your well-being their top priority. Additionally, our compassionate mental health staff can address (and has experience with) any particular mental health issue you may be experiencing but not mentioned above, such as:
Substance abuse and mental illness don’t have to control your life and diminish your well-being. If you’ve been looking for the right program to address your unique needs and restore hope, Bayview Recovery can help you. Reach out now by calling 855.478.3650.
Dr. Dave Cundiff, MD, MPH (Medical Reviewer)
