In the behavioral health industry, a co-occurring disorder refers to the simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder and mental health condition in an individual. It can refer to one of each, such as alcohol and depression, or even more challenging cases, like alcohol and opioids co-occurring with anxiety and depression. This complex condition often requires specialized treatment known as dual diagnosis treatment.
Dual diagnosis treatment is essential because it addresses both disorders concurrently, recognizing the interconnected nature of mental health conditions. A person with co-occurring disorders cannot fully recover from one condition without addressing the other. The treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes, all tailored to the individual’s unique needs.
Insight Recovery Center offers comprehensive alcohol rehab in Asheville, NC, and tailored treatment plans, including dual diagnosis treatment. Call 828.826.1376 today to learn how we can help you or a loved one break the cycle of alcohol addiction and address any co-occurring disorders.
The Impact of Alcohol and Depression
Alcohol consumption can have a significant impact on depression due to its influence on brain chemistry, particularly on neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Here are some key points to understand:
- Alcohol and brain chemistry – Alcohol increases the release of dopamine, creating a temporary feeling of pleasure or reward. However, prolonged alcohol use can deplete dopamine levels, leading to feelings of sadness or depression. Similarly, alcohol can also affect serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation. Over time, excessive drinking can disrupt serotonin pathways, leading to depressive symptoms.
- Alcohol as a trigger for depression – Alcohol can trigger depressive episodes in individuals prone to depression. It acts as a depressant, slowing down brain functioning and altering mood, thinking, and behavior. This can exacerbate existing depressive symptoms or even trigger new ones.
- Alcohol and antidepressants – Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of antidepressant medications. It can increase their side effects, reduce their efficacy, and sometimes even make depression worse. Therefore, individuals taking antidepressants are generally advised to avoid alcohol.
- Alcohol misuse and suicide risk – There is a strong link between alcohol use disorder and an increased risk of suicide. Alcohol impairs judgment, lowers inhibitions, and exacerbates feelings of hopelessness and despair, which can lead to suicidal thoughts or attempts.
If you or someone you know is grappling with alcohol addiction and co-occurring depression, seeking professional help is vital.
Co-Occurring Disorders Treated in Our Alcohol Rehab
Insight Recovery Center in North Carolina offers a comprehensive alcohol rehab program designed to treat both alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders like depression. Our program incorporates evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and dual diagnosis treatment.
Benefits of our program include:
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs
- Skilled therapists who specialize in treating co-occurring disorders
- An inclusive, supportive environment that fosters recovery and resilience
Begin your journey towards recovery and reclaim control over your life. We offer comprehensive outpatient treatment, including a partial hospitalization program (PHP) with around-the-clock supervision and an intensive outpatient program (IOP) that provides more flexibility. Remember, recovery is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. We are here to help every step of the way.
Contact Insight Recovery Center Today
The co-occurrence of alcohol addiction and depression presents unique challenges that require specialized treatment. Dual diagnosis treatment offers a comprehensive approach that addresses both disorders simultaneously, ensuring the best chances of successful recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with these co-occurring disorders, reach out for support and seek professional help at Insight Recovery Center. We accept most major insurance and are in-network with Aetna, Cigna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Call 828.826.1376 or reach out online today.