Struggling with addiction is complicated enough on its own, but if you’re dealing with another mental health issue on top of it, things can quickly become overwhelming. There is a strong link between mental illness and addiction that is not considered by many. However, you can make informed decisions regarding your addiction treatment by understanding how the two are linked. If you’re looking for addiction treatment in Texas, call 1.844.768.0169 to speak with someone from the knowledgeable team at The Right Step Houston about how mental illness and addiction are linked and our addiction therapies that consider that connection.
How Are Mental Illness and Addiction Linked?
There’s a strong link between mental illness and addiction. Some people who have experienced severe mental health issues may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms. Alternatively, substance abuse can trigger mental health issues in people predisposed to it. Either way, the two conditions often go hand in hand, making it essential to address both problems when seeking addiction treatment.
Are Mental Health Services Essential to Addiction Treatment?
Many addiction treatment programs offer therapy and counseling to address the underlying causes of addiction, including mental health issues. This can include individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy. These services can help you develop coping strategies and address the root causes of addiction.
What Happens When Someone Struggles with Addiction and Another Mental Health Condition?
When someone struggles with addiction and another mental health issue, their symptoms can be more severe and harder to manage. For example, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can all make it more challenging to stay sober and avoid addictive behaviors. Additionally, some prescription medications used to treat mental health conditions can be addictive, making it challenging to address both issues simultaneously.
In cases where a diagnosable mental health condition develops alongside addiction, dual diagnosis treatment is typically recommended for overcoming the substance use disorder and managing the mental health condition.
What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?
Dual diagnosis treatment is a type of addiction treatment program that addresses both addiction and a co-occurring mental health issue at the same time. This approach is critical for people struggling with both conditions, as it ensures that both problems are addressed simultaneously.
Some of the most common cases of co-occurring disorders include:
- Substance use disorder and depression
- Alcohol use disorder and anxiety
- Opioid use disorder and bipolar disorder
- Stimulant use disorder and PTSD
Dual diagnosis treatment typically involves a combination of therapy and medication management. During therapy, you will work with a mental health professional or therapist to address the underlying causes of addiction and any mental health issues you face. Medication management may involve prescribing medication to manage symptoms of mental illness or to help with addiction treatment.
This treatment can help you identify the underlying causes of addiction, gain insight into your mental health issue, manage both conditions simultaneously, and develop healthier coping strategies.
Find Mental Health and Addiction Treatment in Texas at The Right Step Houston
Mental health concerns and addiction are firmly linked, making it essential to address both issues in addiction treatment. Dual diagnosis treatment is a type of addiction treatment that addresses addiction and a co-occurring mental health condition at the same time. If you’re looking for addiction treatment in Texas, contact The Right Step Houston today at 1.844.768.0169 to learn more about our addiction therapy options and dual diagnosis treatment programs. At The Right Step Houston, you can rest assured that we offer specialized and customized addiction treatment plans that consider co-occurring concerns. We’ll help you address the underlying causes of addiction and mental health issues, giving you the best chance at long-term recovery.