(Newswire.net — September 6, 2019) — Dealing with substance abuse, drug addiction, or alcoholism in itself is pretty complicated, and more so when a person is also struggling with mental health issues. Mental illness and addiction together are known as a concurrent disorder, co-occurring disorders, or dual diagnosis.
In a situation of dual diagnosis, both the addiction and mental illness show their unique symptoms. These symptoms hinder one’s ability to function properly in school or work, negotiate through real-life situations, maintain a stable personal and social life, and so on. To complicate the situation even further, co-occurring disorders also affect each other. To put it in simpler terms, an untreated mental illness worsens the addiction in a person and vice versa. The incidence of dual diagnosis is much larger than one realizes.
Mental health issues are as these are highly stigmatized in society. There is also a prevalent sense of indifference towards such topics. However, one needs to realize that ignorance and undertreatment make it more detrimental. Therefore, with sound treatment, familial and societal support, and self-help, one can easily overcome the situation so as to reclaim their sense of self.
Drawing linkages between Mental illness and addiction
As already stated, substance abuse and mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and so on are closely linked. Although some forms of substance abuse can cause prolonged psychotic disorders, it is found that one doesn’t directly cause the other.
However, studies have also time and again suggested that drugs and alcohol are often employed to self-medicate the symptoms of mental health issues. To ease out the symptoms of an undiagnosed mental illness and cope with difficult emotional situations, people tend to get inclined towards consuming such substances. While it may help provide immediate relief and uplift one’s mood for a short time, it results in multiple side effects and often worsens the symptoms in the longer run. It also results in falling prey to addiction.
Considering other affecting factors
Mental disorders are caused by an interplay of the environment and genetics. Alcohol and drug addiction also result in an increased underlying risk for mental disorders. When you are at risk of mental instability, the consumption of drugs and alcohol can push you over the edge. Various research has also indicated individual abusers of marijuana show an increased risk of psychosis while people abusing opioid painkillers are at a higher risk for depression.
Addiction to these symptoms complicates the situation as it interacts with mental health medications such as anti-anxiety pills, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers. Thus, making them less effective at managing the symptoms.
Conclusion
There is always a silver lining behind the darkest of the clouds. Therefore, one should never lose hope. Though recovering from co-occurring disorders requires time, courage, and commitment, it is absolutely treatable. Joining a self-help support group can prove to be of great help. It offers you a chance to meet people going through a similar situation or worse, and learn from each other’s experiences.