WHAT IS depression?
According to the Mayo Clinic, “depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.”
It is a very common disorder found in those dealing with substance abuse. While underlying depression may lead some to begin using drugs and alcohol in order to cope, these substances also trigger and magnify the effects of the condition. Research shows that nearly 40% of individuals who are diagnosed with severe depression also have issues with drugs or alcohol. In order to achieve true and lasting recovery, you can not only treat the addiction; you must also treat the co-occurring disorder. Failure to do so will most likely result in chronic relapse.
DEPRESSION AND ADDICTION
Many people with depression suffer in silence. The longer it goes on, the deeper they fall into isolation. Out of desperation, many turn to drugs and alcohol. The temporary relief they get from these substances eventually leads to greater use and dependency.
There are warning signs associated with both addiction and depressive mood, and it’s important to address these symptoms as quickly as possible to get the necessary help and achieve the best outcome possible.
CO-OCCURRING DISORDER TREATMENT AND ADDICTION
People with mental health problems often turn to substances to self-medicate against depressive symptoms. However, alcohol and drugs typically aggravate the symptoms and produce additional health issues. Like other co-occurring disorders, depression and substances create a vicious, downward cycle that is nearly impossible to stop without treatment. For this reason, it is important that people find a South Carolina treatment program that focuses on both issues so they can acquire the tools and support they need to discover a new life that is free from both problems.
If you or somebody you know is experiencing the following symptoms, they may be suffering from depression and should consider a treatment program like the one offered at BriteLife Recovery:
- Lack of interest in social activities or hobbies
- Loss or deterioration of personal relationships
- Isolation
- Change in sleeping patterns
- Irritability