Mental health plays a significant role in our everyday lives, often influencing our decisions. When it comes to substance abuse, there is a strong connection between addiction and depression. Co-occurring disorders, also called dual diagnosis, are when two mental disorders or illnesses occur at the same time. Understanding this intersection can help us better understand how depression and addiction interact with each other.
If you or a loved one are suffering from depression and addiction, a professional dual diagnosis treatment program like that offered at Insight Recovery Center can help. Call 828.826.1376 for more information.
Depression and Addiction: Dual Diagnosis
Dual diagnosis is not uncommon and can be caused by various factors such as genetics, environment, or trauma. It can also be caused by self-medicating for mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Many people who suffer from depression turn to drugs and alcohol to feel better but instead end up developing an addiction. This holds true for seasonal depression and drug abuse—this is why it’s so important to seek professional help if you are struggling with either disorder.
Types of Depression
The most common forms of depression are Major Depression, Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Each of these could be paired with an alcohol or drug use disorder.
- Major depression is the most severe type of depression. It is marked by persistent low mood and depression-related symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue, thoughts of death or suicide, restlessness, and guilt.
- PDD is a depression that lasts for at least two years and usually includes depression-related symptoms such as low self-esteem, hopelessness, problems with concentration, and more.
- Finally, SAD is depression that typically occurs during the winter months due to a lack of sunlight. SAD can be accompanied by depression-related symptoms such as depression, irritability, fatigue, anxiety, and more.
Signs of Dual Diagnosis
The signs of dual diagnosis vary depending on the person, but some common signs include the following:
- Mood swings
- Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little)
- Changes in appetite (eating more or less than usual)
- Loss of interest in activities that used to bring pleasure
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Difficulty concentrating on tasks
- Thoughts of suicide
If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, it is vital to seek help from a qualified treatment program for depression and addiction like that at Insight Recovery Center in Asheville, NC.
Common Co-Occurring Disorders
The most common co-occurring disorders are depression and substance abuse disorders such as alcoholism or drug addiction. Other common combinations include anxiety disorders like OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) combined with substance abuse disorders and bipolar disorder combined with substance abuse disorder. Each combination requires its own unique treatment plan, so it is crucial to have an accurate diagnosis before beginning any form of treatment. They must be treated simultaneously as part of a dual diagnosis treatment program.
Do Depression And Addiction Occur Together Often?
Yes! In fact, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 1 in 3 people who struggle with a substance use disorder also have a mental health disorder such as depression or anxiety. This is why it’s so important that both conditions are treated simultaneously; treating only one can worsen the other over time if left unaddressed.
Contact Insight Recovery Center Today
If you think you may be suffering from both depression and addiction, Insight Recovery Center in Asheville, NC offers comprehensive treatment plans designed specifically for those dealing with co-occurring disorders like yours. From therapy sessions designed to tackle underlying issues causing your dual diagnosis to relapse prevention techniques that will keep you on track after completing treatment – Insight Recovery Center has the experience necessary to get you back on your feet again. Don’t wait – contact us today online or call 828.826.1376.