Addiction and mental health are two related issues that must be addressed as a part of recovery. Getting treatment for both conditions at the same time is the best way to ensure you get the help you need.

Most people who have addiction have co-occurring mental health disorders. This is called a dual diagnosis.

Mental health

Mental health is a key part of personal, emotional and social well-being. It determines how an individual handles stress, interpersonal relationships and decision-making.

Many factors can contribute to a person’s mental health, including genetics, how your brain works, how you grew up, your environment and social group, and life experience. People can also develop mental illness as a result of drug or alcohol abuse, some medical conditions or hormonal changes.

Most people with mental illnesses recover to live productive and happy lives. Treatment can include psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication, or other therapies. Often, both therapies are used in combination.

Addictions

Addiction is a problem where people use a substance, such as alcohol or drugs, to the point that they become physically and/or psychologically dependent on it. It is an extremely serious condition that can lead to death if left untreated.

The risk of addiction depends on a number of factors, including genetics, environment and life experiences. Many people who have mental illness also have a substance use disorder.

When you use a drug, it affects your brain chemistry. Your brain releases a chemical called dopamine, which makes you feel good and motivates you to seek more.

Eventually, you develop a tolerance to the drug and need larger doses to experience the same effects. Then you start using more and more to get the same effect, which becomes a cycle.

If you think you may have an addiction, or you are concerned about someone else, get help right away. Your therapist or licensed counselor can help you find self-help support groups and other resources.

Co-occurring disorders

Substance addiction and mental health disorders are both brain disorders, affecting the chemicals in the brain that control mood, behavior and decision-making. Each condition is unique, causing different symptoms and challenges.

However, the way they interact can make treatment a challenge. Those with co-occurring disorders may experience symptoms of both conditions simultaneously.

The key to treating co-occurring disorders is a thorough neuropsychological evaluation to identify both conditions and create a specialized treatment plan that addresses each of them concurrently. This approach can help stabilize a client’s mental health disorder without triggering their addiction and may also provide the foundation for long-term recovery.

Those with co-occurring disorders can benefit from evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, along with peer support groups. These groups offer a safe space for patients to connect with others who have experienced similar situations and learn new ways of coping.

Treatment

Addiction is a chronic disease that requires ongoing treatment. Treatment must address both the physical and psychological aspects of an individual's addiction.

People with substance use disorders (SUD) have an intense focus on using a substance or substances such as alcohol, drugs or tobacco to the point where their ability to function in day-to-day life is impaired. It can be a serious problem that interferes with family, work and social life.

Psychotherapy is a key component of effective treatment for addiction. It helps you recognize and change your thoughts and feelings that may trigger substance use and helps you learn how to replace substance-using behaviors with productive ones.

Medications are also an important part of treatment for mental health issues, such as depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety. Psychiatric medications can also ease withdrawal symptoms and help you get through detoxification.