When an individual is treated for a drug or alcohol addiction, there are several mental health disorders that can also co-occur. In fact, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), around 9.2. million U.S. adults have some type of co-occurring disorder. Living with one of these conditions can make someone more susceptible to the other. For instance, an individual suffering from drug addiction may experience depression or anxiety. At the same time, someone with depression may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their symptoms, which can exacerbate the disease of addiction.
At Detox to Rehab, we help individuals suffering from any form of addiction navigate their journey to sobriety. Understanding co-occurring disorders is key to this process. Today, we’re taking a closer look at some of the mental health disorders that commonly accompany addiction, and how we can help.
Symptoms vs. Disorders
Before we dive into the most prevalent co-occurring disorders, it’s important to make one important distinction. When someone is in the throes of an addiction, they may experience symptoms that mimic those associated with a mental health condition.
These can include:
- Low self-esteem
- Guilt
- Anger
- Sadness
- Grief
- Nervousness
- Suspicion
While some of these symptoms can be linked to mental health disorders, their presence does not automatically indicate that a disorder is present. For example, someone can be sad about their addictive behavior and how it’s affecting those around them without suffering from clinical depression.
Only a certified physician can diagnose someone with such a condition. Once this diagnosis occurs, the symptoms can be classified as a mental health disorder.
Understanding this, let’s take a look at some of the disorders that often go hand-in-hand with drug or alcohol addiction.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) affects nearly 7 million adults in the U.S. That’s more than 3% of the total population.
It’s normal to feel a little anxious from time to time, especially in high-stress situations. However, for someone with GAD, those feelings are almost always present.
This condition is classified by excessive, ongoing worry and anxiety that interfere with day-to-day life and are challenging to control. The symptoms of GAD can be emotional, mental, and physical in nature.
Physical signs include:
- Sleep disturbances
- Functional impairment
- Fatigue or restlessness
- Muscle tension or aches
- Nausea or gastrointestinal distress
- Trembling or twitching
Emotional signs include:
- Persistent, recurring anxiety or panic attacks
- Inability to release worry
- Overthinking plans and solutions
- Inability to relax
- Difficulty concentrating
When someone lives with GAD, their life can be a constant barrage of doubts, worries, and concerns. As such, they may be more likely to rely on illicit drugs or alcohol to help them cope. These substances might make social situations easier to manage or may help them manage their symptoms.
In addition, individuals with GAD may also be more likely to abuse prescription anxiety medications, such as Xanax. While these can offer short-term relief from the pain they’re experiencing, they can also lead them into a cycle of addiction that’s difficult to break.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes intense mood swings. When an individual is experiencing an emotional high, this is known as mania or hypomania. When they’re low, it’s known as depression.
Someone suffering from this disorder is especially vulnerable to drugs and alcohol. They may feel as though these substances will help them “balance” and regulate their emotions. However, it’s important to note that bipolar disorder isn’t a short-term condition.
Rather, it’s caused by a chemical imbalance in one’s brain, which leads to extreme bouts of both mania and depression. While someone with this condition may choose to self-medicate with addictive substances, any kind of relief they feel will be temporary in nature.
Ultimately, that behavior can even increase the frequency and duration of their episodes. Only medication and therapies specifically designed to treat bipolar disorder will prove effective in the long term.
Eating Disorders
In addition to the physical sensations and immediate pain relief that drugs and alcohol can provide, some substances can also help suppress one’s appetite and contribute to weight loss. This is especially the case with drugs marketed as stimulants or diet pills.
For someone already vulnerable to an eating disorder, this appeal can be enough to catalyze an addiction. Some of the most common types of eating disorders include:
- Anorexia
- Bulimia
- Binge eating
- Pica (eating objects not considered food)
- Avoidant/restrictive food intake
These conditions can be traumatizing to an individual’s mind and body. As such, they may develop an addiction to cope. In addition to drugs, they may also choose alcohol in an attempt to boost their self-confidence.
When an eating disorder is present, it’s often accompanied by some type of body dysmorphic disorder. This is a condition in which a person is excessively critical of their own body and appearance, obsessing over minor or even made-up flaws that they perceive within themselves. Eating disorders, as well as dysmorphia, can occur in both males and females and can happen at any age.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced a traumatic event or series of events. It can affect the entirety of a person, including their mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness.
Every year, PTSD affects around 3.5% of all U.S. adults. It often sets in after someone has gone through a period of extreme stress, which can sometimes be life-threatening. For this reason, PTSD is typically associated with veterans who have experienced front-line combat, though it can affect anyone at any time.
Individuals suffering from PTSD might have trouble sleeping, due to nightmares, anxiety, or night terrors. They may also find it difficult to engage in daily life due to flashbacks or feelings of being on edge. These feelings and reactions can lead them to use (and eventually abuse) drugs and alcohol.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is commonly diagnosed in children, though the diagnosis can occur at any age. This is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can lead to any of the following conditions:
- Inability to focus
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsive behavior
ADHD can affect many aspects of one’s life, from their academic achievements to their professional pursuits. It can also hinder their personal relationships and make daily functioning a challenge.
For this reason, the condition often occurs alongside drug or alcohol addiction, though a substance use disorder can make the symptoms more intense. Patients may also begin abusing the medications that their physician prescribes to help treat their condition, which can include stimulants.
Mood and Personality Disorders
When an individual suffers from a mood or personality disorder, it can affect every aspect of their life.
Mood disorders affect a person’s ability to regulate their feelings. Some of the most prevalent ones include:
- Depression
- Dysthymia (less severe than depression, but longer-lasting)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
On the other hand, personality disorders affect how an individual relates to other people. Often (though not always), they are linked to instances or traumatic events that occur in childhood or adolescence. Common ones include:
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Paranoia
Of these, BPD is among the most common. It can involve a range of symptoms such as:
- Severe mood swings
- Impulsive behavior
- Severe emotional imbalance
People with personality or mood disorders often find it difficult to manage and maintain a relationship with others. As a result, they may turn to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a severe form of paranoia. This is a mental health condition that causes individuals to experience a host of symptoms, including:
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Psychosis
- Disorganized thinking
Many schizophrenics find it difficult or impossible to distinguish reality from fantasy. These can lead to unnerving and overwhelming experiences, often accompanied by feelings of intense suspicion and nervousness. Individuals with this condition may seek temporary solace and relief from drugs or alcohol.
Break Free From the Disease of Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with the disease of addiction, you may have also noticed the signs of another, co-occurring mental health disorder.
From anxiety and depression to personality disorders, there are many mental illnesses that can occur, especially when substance abuse has made an individual physically and emotionally vulnerable.
Our team at Detox to Rehab can help individuals achieve the future they deserve. You can break free from the holds that these conditions have on you, and the right treatment option is just one call away.
Contact us today to learn more about the programs we provide and let’s take this next step together.
53 comments
Addiction is not just mental but it has physical consequences too. Mst notable being the mental illusions. It only shows there is more to rehabilitation to spiriyual healing.
Well stated, a lot of health issues comes with bad addiction like mental health disorder. We just have to shunned them to live better
What a detailed analysis and information. It is better not to get addicted than looking for a way out. This is because is very demanding.
When one is mentally disordered, everything about the person is disordered. His or her thinking won’t be normal and such a person’s life becomes miserable. Thanks to rehab to rehab for this sensitisation.
The is a great article. It has increased my knowledge on mental health disorders. Nice work detox
This is huge. So, if one has mental health, that person can also be addicted! Thanks for shedding light on this, detox.
This is huge. So, if one has mental health disorder, such a person can also be addicted! Thanks for shedding more light on this, detox.
Co-ocuring disorders are really bad in the sense that they can enhance an addition and yet many people are not even aware. Thanks for highliting this disorder.
Thank you so very much detox for this well detailed and informative article. It really came in very handy. Thank you so much.
This is a whole lot. The symptoms seems to portray our daily lifestyle which we think it is normal. I have really learned alot from this article and will obviously take my mental health seriously
This is really and educative and informative piece of article. I have learnt in a great deal a lot about my mental health and too consumption of alcohol and also they contradict. Thank you guys for putting this out here.
It is better not to engage in taking alcohol in order to prevent mental disorder . Being addicted to any drug at the same time can cause mental disorder. This is a useful information. Thanks for sharing.
I have a friend who suffers from addiction and a mental health condition, and I believe that this article can help her change her bad habit. It is simple and easy to understand, and it includes the symptoms she should be aware of.
I have seen this happen, and whoever is facing stress in life starts smoking or drinking and then starts doing drugs. But thanks to you for highlighting all these aspects with complete details.
It is important to be with them and motivate them to get better. It is also very important to detect addiction quickly, or else it could be too late.
Unfortunately, it is true that especially nowadays people suffer from several addictions. The Disease of Addiction is often accompanied by mental health disorders. Thank you for mentioning all these mental health disorders. It is the best article I have ever read about these mental disorders. It is so useful and informative. Excellent job.
That’s all indicate mental health disorder and this is a lesson for me
I always like reading your articles.
Addiction is a disease. May god help those addicted.
Thanks for breaking down all these types of mental disorders that can easily be a result of addiction. So many conditions affect the brain these days that it’s actually worrying as most of them don’t need a prehistoric beginning in your family and can just manifest themselves in your life unplanned.
Mood changes is one of the disorders that are common after addiction. It is all about having the right support to corner all the distractions.
What are very vital and important article on the addition and it’s healthy implications.
It’s very informative and being educative enough.
I have learned so much from this article including meanings and the causes behind so many disorders. Thanks for the awesome share on the relationship between addiction and mental health.
We have to be aware that mental health will always good with bad addiction that we have. So we have to deal with it as early as possible.
There are many different types of mental diseases that can manifest, from anxiety and melancholy to personality problems, particularly when substance addiction has left a person physically and emotionally weak.
There are many different types of mental diseases that can manifest, from anxiety and melancholy to personality problems, particularly when substance addiction has left a person physically and emotionally weak.
Thanks Detox for always enlightening us on the topic of Drug addiction and all it’s attending issues.
thanks a lot for writing about generalized anxiety disorder and the physical signs that come with it. I also appreciate the fact that you talked a lot about bipolar disorder. I have been trying to understand it. Your piece made it crystal clear. great piece
Thank you for sharing this educative content with us. Almost everyone is indeed facing one disease or disorder, but I know with God their healing is assured.
This article is highly informative and educative about mental disorders that often accompany addiction. In view of this, let people watch their lifestyles to prevent the side effects.
These article is really helpful, it contains all I need to know about mental disorders that comes with addictions. Well done
Low self esteem is becoming a serious problem today in our society, especially in our youths and young adults, due to peer pressure. It would greatly help if the parents can put more effort on their children in building up their morals.
This post was very enlightening. Addiction is not a good thing to begin and this article has even stressed it further.
That is why it is very important to lend a helping hand if one can to those suffering from addiction. Addiction is a very serious disease, which should be taken seriously.
This is serious, that is why anyone who is under any form of addiction should be helped and treated quickly.
It is true that When an individual suffers from a mood or personality disorder, it can affect every aspect of their life.
With this great article,I have learnt the different disorders that can come with being addicted.
Thanks you so much for providing succint clarity to these two terms. I have successfully muddled them up in previous times, but no more.
It’s crucial to emphasize the need for professional diagnosis when addressing symptoms associated with addiction and mental health disorders. Self-awareness can be a significant first step in recovery, but it’s only a part of the process.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder’s impact on daily life is profound, and it’s heartbreaking to see how substances can sometimes serve as a temporary escape from the constant worry and tension. Treatment that addresses both GAD and addiction is essential for lasting recovery.
The connection between bipolar disorder and addiction underscores the importance of holistic treatment. It’s a reminder that substances may provide temporary relief, but they can ultimately worsen the condition they’re meant to alleviate.
Eating disorders can be devastating, and the overlap with substance abuse adds complexity to the path to recovery. Comprehensive support that addresses both issues is crucial for those affected.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a weighty mental health concern, and the vulnerability it creates can lead individuals to seek solace in addictive substances. Combining therapy for trauma and addiction can offer hope for a brighter future.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can be challenging to manage, and when combined with addiction, it’s a particularly difficult hurdle to overcome. Education and support can empower individuals to find healthier coping mechanisms.
ADHD can disrupt various facets of life, making individuals susceptible to self-medication through substance use. Early intervention and support are vital.
Mood and personality disorders can be isolating, pushing some individuals towards substance use as a coping mechanism. Compassionate treatment is crucial for their recovery.
This article provides a compassionate message, reminding individuals that there is hope for recovery and that seeking help is the first step toward a brighter future.
It’s alarming to see the statistics about how many adults in the U.S. struggle with these co-occurring disorders. This reinforces the urgency of accessible and effective treatment.
The article’s emphasis on seeking professional help is a crucial message for those who may be self-medicating or hesitant to reach out.
The physical and emotional symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder are often underestimated, making it vital to educate people on the seriousness of this condition.
The message of hope and support from Detox to Rehab is a reminder that recovery is possible, even when facing the challenges of co-occurring mental health disorders and addiction.
Thank you for sharing this! I’ve always wanted to know this type of co-relation of mental health and addictions. I hope that people that suffer from this can improve and feel better in the long run!
Hi my name is Thomas Brown and I was wondering what kind of insurance you take cause have medicaid and I am in a group home but they are moving in to another place an I was wondering if you guys would accept me in your program if you can give me a call when you get this an I’m wanting to get clean and sober and feel better than I was .. please call me at 1(661)519-9150 my name is Thomas and I do stay in Las Vegas Nevada.. thank you