written by Oluwatise Benson
According to The World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is described as a “state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”
When an individual suffers from both a substance abuse problem and a mental health issue, it is referred to as a CO-OCCURRING DISORDER OR DUAL DIAGNOSIS.
Mental health and substance abuse are two connected issues that have an extreme impact on users, their families and communities all over the world. Although these two are distinct concerns, they also coexist with one another, creating a challenging cycle to overcome. Together in this article, we will be exploring the connection between substance abuse and mental health, the factors contributing to their relationship and importance in addressing this dual diagnosis.
UNDERSTANDING THE CONNECTION
Dual diagnosis often go hand in hand, with each condition affecting and reinforcing another. Individuals living with mental health disorders many a time turn to substance as a coping mechanism to relief them from feelings of depression and other psychological distress. On the other hand, substance abuse can aggravate existing mental health issues, which can lead to increased symptoms.
COMMON CO-OCCURRING DISORDERS
- People with bipolar disorder may experience episodes of mania or hypomania followed by periods of depressions, during which they may be more vulnerable to substance abuse as a means of self-medication or stimulation.
- Individuals with depression or anxiety disorders may turn to prescription medications, illicit drugs, or alcohol as a way to cope with the overwhelming sadness, fear or hopelessness.
- Substance abuse is very common among folks with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, leading to worsening symptoms, medications non-adherence and increased risk of relapse.
- People who have experienced trauma may use substances to numb the painful memories, ease hypervigilance or cope with the flashbacks and nightmare associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD.
Several FACTORS CONTRIBUTE to dual diagnosis and we will be accessing them below;
- Co-occurring disorders may go undiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms and lack of access to integrated care can lead to a cycle of unchecked and untreated illness and rapid case of substance abuse.
- Genetic weakness, neurochemical imbalances and alteration in brain structure and function can increase vulnerability to both mental health disorders and substance abuse
- Childhood experiences, chronic stress, trauma and exposure to substance using family members and friends can contribute to the development of dual diagnosis.
TREATMENT APPROACH
- Dual diagnosis programs that are designed to the unique needs of people with disorders provide comprehensive care, including, medication management, individual and group therapy, peer support and psychiatric assessment.
- Holistic approaches that talk about spiritual, social, emotional and physical dimensions of wellness, such as, exercise, nutrition, mindfulness-based practices and vocational rehabilitation can promote recovery.
- Pharmacotherapy combined with psychotherapy can effectively improve overall functions, reduce cravings, stabilizing mood and manage dual diagnosis.
- Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based therapies does not just help individuals modify but also identify dysfunctional emotions, behaviors and thoughts associated with co-occurring disorders.
The connection between mental health and substance abuse presents challenges that require compassionate response. By identifying the connection, addressing them and providing treatments, we can break the cycle of dual diagnosis and also support individuals on their journey towards a healthy, healing and hopeful lifestyle.