More people are realizing that there is a close connection between mental health disorders and drug addiction. This is an important finding which is helping to eliminate the stigma around drug addiction and create more empathy among human beings.
The stereotype that was rampant was that addicts are bad people who willingly indulge in their choice of drug. However, the truth is that addicts are just hurt people trying to medicate themselves and deal with the pain. This is why it is so critical to understand the connection between mental health disorders and drug addiction. If you are struggling with an addiction yourself, understanding this connection can help you unlock full recovery. Read this article to learn more:
Addictions Often Manifest from Untreated Mental Health Disorders
Although mental health awareness is growing rapidly year by year, many people don’t understand the connection between mental health issues and addiction. They may find themselves in a state of denial about their mental health issues and assume that they are a highly unlikely candidate for drug addiction.
However, the reality can be quite different. People who leave their mental health issues unchecked may soon find themselves dependent on a certain substance or activity in order to regulate their emotional state.
The relation between trauma and addiction can be seen more clearly in war veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Hence, it is vital for people with addictions to address the root cause of their addictions and learn healthy coping mechanisms.
They will be benefited from a trauma-based therapy approach. They will also be benefitted from the healing and safe environment found in top rehab facilities. For instance, if they go for an alcohol detox with WhiteSands, they get to take a break from the world and enjoy the peaceful environment.
Mental Health Issues Can Come from Untreated Addictions
If an addict is in denial of their drug habit and doesn’t wish to undergo the discipline of recovery, they may find themselves developing a whole host of serious physical and mental health issues. Addicts often end up experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings. They may find themselves more prone to self-harm. They may even experience paranoia and struggle to recover from such experiences.
If they find themselves in a recovery program, they may become more depressed and anxious. This is why it is important for them to take advantage of therapy approaches like mindfulness, medication-assisted treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. It is also helpful to get community support regularly.
Why an Integrated Approach to Treatment is Necessary
Experience has taught experts that mere abstinence cannot be an effective solution in the long run. It is important to observe the symptoms closely and choose the right treatment approaches. Recovery is always long-term. Hence, people suffering from co-occurring disorders need to find the right treatment program. They need to have realistic personal recovery goals and go for counseling regularly.