A mental health disorder is one of the many factors that can contribute to the development of an addiction. At the same time, addiction can worsen or initiate certain mental health issues. This list of psychological disorders highlights some of the most common concerns that co-occur with addiction.
Dual diagnosis treatment can address both issues and help clients recover fully, whether they are struggling with a primary mental health diagnosis, substance use disorder, or dual diagnosis. Contact Crestview Recovery by calling 866.262.0531 if you are interested in learning more about the mental health concerns that are often present alongside addiction.
Types of Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health concerns on this list of psychological disorders. While it’s normal to experience depression, chronic depression is a mood disorder. Sadly, many individuals struggling with depression don’t get medical treatment. Types of depression include:
- Major depressive disorder
- Persistent depressive disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Postpartum depression
- Seasonal affective disorder
Without treatment, depression can hinder so many aspects of life. Some individuals turn to drugs or alcohol to deal with the symptoms of depression, although that usually makes the situation worse in the long run.
Anxiety Disorders
Another of the most common psychological disorders that co-occur with addiction is anxiety. Once again, moments of anxiety before a big test or a job interview are standard. What isn’t normal is when anxiety detracts from your quality of life. Types of anxiety disorders include:
- Panic disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Separation anxiety disorder
Untreated anxiety disorders can lead to fatigue, insomnia, nausea, social isolation, and feelings of impending doom. Drugs and alcohol might seem like a way to overcome these side effects, but they often worsen the symptoms.
Personality Disorders
Personality disorders can include illnesses like borderline personality disorder or schizophrenia. There is a treatment for these disorders, but far too many people never receive a proper diagnosis or aren’t using the appropriate medication. Trying to deal with personality shifts and uncontrolled emotions is exhausting and stressful. As a result, many individuals suffering from personality disorders rely on drugs and alcohol as a way to soothe overwhelming emotions or unmanageable stress.
Eating Disorders
It often surprises people to learn that eating disorders and substance use disorders commonly co-occur. However, it shouldn’t be a surprise. Both disorders can stem from the same insecurities and underlying issues. Eating disorders include:
- Anorexia
- Bulimia
- Binge eating disorder
Trauma, a history of abuse or a Type A perfectionist personality can all lead to addiction as well as eating disorders. Often, treatment for both disorders is similar, and both may take place in a rehab facility.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Surviving a traumatic experience is often seen as a blessing, but trauma also brings long-term consequences that individuals need to appropriately deal with. PTSD can be a result of childhood abuse, serving in a war zone, living through a natural disaster, or witnessing a violent crime. Whatever the cause of PTSD, the disorder often co-occurs with addiction.
Find a Dual Diagnosis Rehab to Kickstart Your Recovery
Every condition on this list of psychological disorders requires treatment, especially when it co-occurs with addiction. At Crestview Recovery, dual diagnosis treatment addresses underlying issues and provides comprehensive care. Some of the many treatment methods for co-occurring disorders may include:
- Trauma therapy
- Mindfulness meditation therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Holistic drug rehab therapy
Having a co-occurring disorder is not easy, but it can be manageable with access to targeted care, experienced therapists, and sober living opportunities. At Crestview Recovery in Portland, Oregon, varied treatment methods and quality care combine to create lasting results. Call 866.262.0531 when you’re ready to take the next step on your journey to recovery.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
