Mood disorders as a whole affect a large amount of our current population. According to statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health, 21.4% of U.S. adults are estimated to have had a mood disorder at some point in their lives. Mood disorders tend to have co-occurring disorders — one of the most common being substance use disorder (SUD) and addiction. Together, this creates a dual diagnosis, when a person has two or more co-occurring mental health disorders.
Are you more likely to have one of these disorders if you have another? Statistically, the answer is yes: 56% of people with bipolar disorder have also reported to have an SUD, along with 18% of those with major depressive disorder. However, this does not necessarily mean that one disorder will always cause the other. The true answer is a lot more complex, but there is a noticeable link between the two disorders. As more research is conducted, the more we learn why these disorders are so closely linked.
What Are Mood Disorders?
Mood disorders affect a person’s emotions and feelings to the point where it interferes with their ability to function in normal life. There are two types of mood disorder, depression and bipolar disorder. Both these disorders can be further broken down into types — such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or bipolar II disorder. Mood disorders are typically long lasting, sometimes even life-long. However, with professional help, people can and do live normal lives while living with these conditions.
Common symptoms of depressive disorders include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness
- Fatigue
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Difficulties in concentration or focus
- Self-isolation
- Unplanned weight-loss or gain
- Difficulties falling asleep or sleeping too much
Common symptoms of bipolar disorders include:
- Feelings of worthless or guilt
- Episodes of depression, mania and/or hypomania
- Feelings of melancholy
- Engagement in risky behavior
- Feeling a distorted sense of well-being
Though different disorders, there are some overlapping symptoms — mainly, thoughts of suicide or death. Experiencing these symptoms denotes a need for help. If you can’t stop thinking about death or suicide, reach out for help right away through the 988 Lifeline.
Why Are Mood Disorders and Addiction Linked?
It’s hard to tell which disorder came first in a dual diagnosis. Mood disorders often lead to someone self-medicating to deal with negative feelings, which leads to dependence and then addiction. Substance use can exacerbate mood degradation, which can develop into depression or other mood disorders. But what causes someone to want to engage in substance use, or develop a mood disorder? There are several theories on what may be responsible for the development of both conditions.
Genetics may be one cause. Both mood disorders and addiction have genetic risk factors. Those with family members with either disorder are more likely to develop it themselves. By no means is this a prophecy, but many with either disorder report that they have a family member who struggles as well.
Trauma and adverse living conditions may also be an underlying link between both disorders. Living in an abusive situation can cause the development of a mood disorder as well as a dependence on substances as a coping mechanism. This is especially true if there is an overabundance of stress. Depression may arise from feelings of helplessness due to chronic stress, and stress can facilitate self-medicating behaviors to deal with it.
Some substances themselves can mimic symptoms of depression and mania. For example, withdrawal from stimulants like cocaine can cause the development of anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure) — a common symptom of depression. These symptoms are the result of a change in brain chemistry. Disorders like depression can arise with the interruption of brain chemicals like serotonin. An individual’s brain chemistry is unique and delicate. The interruption of such due to substance abuse can be a factor behind mood disorders.
Treating a Dual Diagnosis at Driftwood Recovery
The staff at Driftwood Recovery understand the link between mood disorders and addiction and are fully prepared to offer dual diagnosis treatment. A dual diagnosis can be complex, requiring a specialized treatment plan to facilitate recovery. Although a dual diagnosis can feel impossible to overcome, plenty can and do recover from them. The goal is to address the underlying cause for full healing. This can include utilizing trauma-based therapies, family therapy, and stress management techniques. Paired with holistic methodologies and frequent evaluations, clients get the care they need for success.
Medications may also be needed as part of treatment. Conditions like bipolar disorder do need medication to manage symptoms. Those with depressive disorders can utilize medication to help them feel more focused and comfortable as they undergo treatment. Some addictions may require medication-assisted detox or withdrawal management for the safety of the client. If you need medications, Driftwood Recovery will ensure that the process is safe.
Sometimes being removed from a toxic environment can facilitate positive change in treatment. Driftwood Recovery is designed to be a sanctuary, offering security, safety, and support to all who receive treatment there. This environment shows clients that, yes, they deserve to be treated well and to receive kindness. Such an environment is important for those who want privacy as they recover.
Again, it’s important to reiterate that though mood disorders and addiction are linked, they are not a guarantee. However, those who struggle with both can achieve recovery as long as they are willing to accept professional help. Experiencing either condition, let alone both, is serious enough to necessitate treatment. So don’t wait, experience Driftwood Recovery for yourself.
The link between mood disorders and addiction means that many people struggle with a dual diagnosis. A dual diagnosis takes specialized treatment to overcome, but recovery is possible for anyone with the right professional help. At Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients can find comprehensive and compassionate dual diagnosis treatment. With an emphasis on providing sanctuary, clients find a supportive and safe environment to find healing. Evidence-backed and holistic treatments ensure total care to an individual’s mind, body, and spirit. If you or a loved one is struggling with a mood disorder and addiction, don’t wait to get help. Reach out to Driftwood Recovery today by calling (512) 759-8330.