Substance use does not always cause mental health issues. Likewise, mental health is not always a cause for substance use. Even so, there can be a connection between the two issues. Research has shown that people who have experienced trauma are more likely to develop mental health issues may have higher rates of mental health issues.

There is a large debate about which comes first, substance use or mental health concerns. While there may not be a definitive answer, it is common knowledge that untreated mental health issues can affect a person’s substance use. Likewise, substance use can affect mental health issues.

Substance use is a way to cope with negative symptoms. Albeit, substance use is not a healthy coping skills, drugs and alcohol may appear to provide temporary relief from certain mental health symptoms. The truth is that depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, and anxiety can increase when drugs and alcohol enters the picture.

Some substances can induce psychotic or depressive symptoms in the user. This risk goes up the younger you are. For example, people ages 24 and under are considered adolescents. The human brain is still developing until a person is in their early 20’s. Substances, including alcohol and marijuana, can increase the risk for mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders in the developing brain.

Dual diagnosis refers to an individual who has both mental health and substance use concerns. Researchers estimate that as much as 17% of the general population presents with substance use concerns. 4% of this population is dually diagnosed. In order to effectively treat someone with dual diagnosis, the substance use and the mental health issue should be addressed concurrently.

Substance use can increase the symptoms for several mental health concerns. For example, if someone presents with depression, alcohol use can exaggerate these symptoms and even increase the risk for suicidal ideation. If you have a mental health issue, as well as substance use concerns, addiction treatment and recovery is the best decision that you can make for yourself.

The Kimberly Center recognizes the importance of effective treatment for individuals with concurrent mental health and substance use concerns. Addiction professionals understand that you can’t successfully treat one ailment without addressing the other.

At The Kimberly Center, we care about your recovery and your emotional well-being. Call us now at 855-4-KCENTER to learn more about what addiction treatment involves. We are committed to helping you or your loved one stop the cycle of addiction with education and treatment.