Mental health and substance use are often discussed separately, but for some people, the two are closely connected.
Someone experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or another mental health concern may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way of coping. At the same time, substance use can worsen or contribute to mental health symptoms.
When both are present, addressing only one may not be enough.
What Are Co-Occurring Conditions?
When someone experiences both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder, they are often described as having co-occurring disorders.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), mental health and substance use concerns can influence one another, which is why integrated treatment can be beneficial.
What Can This Look Like?
There isn’t one specific pattern.
Someone may:
Use substances to cope with anxiety or difficult emotions
Notice their depression getting worse after using substances
Have difficulty stopping even when substance use is causing problems
Experience changes in relationships, work, school, or responsibilities
Feel like they need substances to relax, sleep, or get through the day
It’s also possible for someone to experience a substance use concern without realizing that an underlying mental health issue is contributing to it.
You Don’t Have to Figure Out Which Came First
One of the most important things to know is that you don’t have to determine whether mental health challenges or substance use came first before asking for help.
A professional can help assess the bigger picture and determine what types of support may be appropriate.
Treatment may include therapy, skill-building, family support, psychiatric services, medication when appropriate, and relapse-prevention strategies.
SAI Mental Health provides integrated treatment for mental health and substance use concerns, with services available across different levels of care. These include outpatient treatment and Chemical Dependency IOP, as well as adolescent substance-use services.
Asking for Help Doesn’t Mean You’re Weak
Substance use can carry a lot of shame, which may make it difficult to reach out.
But asking for support isn’t about being judged or blamed. It’s about understanding what’s happening and finding healthier ways to manage it.
Treatment can address both substance use and the emotional or mental health concerns that may be connected to it.
If substance use or mental health concerns are affecting your life, you don’t have to handle them alone. Support is available.
Source
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Co-Occurring Disorders — SAMHSA Mental Health & Substance Use Resources