Depression and substance use disorder are closely linked. In fact, the National Bureau of Economic Research found that people who have a mental illness, such as depression, are responsible for ingesting 84 percent of the country’s cocaine and 69 percent of its alcohol. Sometimes, it can be difficult to figure out which condition came first because the symptoms of depression and substance use disorder can be very similar. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse co-occurring with a mental health disorder, seek treatment from Serenity House Detox & Recovery FL detox programs with dual diagnosis therapy treatment.
What are the Symptoms of Depression?
Most people experience low points in their lives. These might be triggered by a significant negative event such as a job loss, a divorce, or the death of someone close to them. In other cases, there seems to be no reason for being sad. In many instances, these periods of sadness are balanced by high points where there are happy moments in the person’s life.
For those people who are experiencing depression, though, the lows can last for weeks, months, or even longer in some cases. In the case of clinical depression, the person’s quality of life can suffer. They might not be able to hold down a job, for example, or their close relationships might fall apart. During a depressed period, they might not be able to get out of bed for days at a time. Therefore, they could start to gain weight or may eat unhealthy foods as a way to help them feel better.
The Link Between Symptoms of Depression And Substance Use Disorder
Another way that a person who has this mental illness might deal with the signs of depression is by self-medicating with drugs or alcohol. Doing so can increase the feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and loneliness that are often an integral part of depression. In fact, experiencing a substance use disorder can be a triggering event that can lead to depression.
There are a number of signs of depression that are shared with a substance use disorder. These symptoms include the following:
- Experiencing negative issues within their relationships
- Isolating themselves from other people who they used to be close to
- Not acknowledging that they have a problem
- Losing interest in hobbies or social activities
Dual Diagnosis: A Necessary Component Of Any Treatment
Today’s addiction treatment specialists understand that treating only one aspect of a person does not deliver the ideal results. Regardless of whether the person is seeking treatment for a substance use disorder or experiencing signs of depression, both conditions must be treated at the same time.
This approach is referred to as dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis is also sometimes referred to as co-occurring conditions. Dual diagnosis is the approach the treatment program takes to treat both conditions simultaneously. Trained therapists address both the substance use disorder and the symptoms of depression. The individual’s treatment plan is individualized so that each facet is given the attention and resources that are necessary for a successful recovery.
What To Look For In A Treatment Center
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of depression and a substance use disorder, it’s important to choose the right treatment center. In addition to ensuring that the treatment center offers treatment for dual diagnosis, it’s important that the center offers services, such as:
- Individualized treatment tailored to the person’s needs and desires
- Family support program that helps repair relationships
- Kind and compassionate staff who are also passionate about their role in the recovery of each person
- Relaxing and serene setting that’s conducive to recovery
The staff at Serenity House Detox & Recovery in Florida is ready to assist you in living a happier, healthy, fulfilled life. Call us today at 866.294.5306 to learn more.
