It’s not uncommon for people struggling with drug and alcohol addiction to also have a mental health disorder. It could be depression, PTSD, anxiety, or an eating disorder. Treatment becomes more complicated because both issues must be addressed. If you’re dealing with anorexia or bulimia in addition to substance abuse, eating disorder counseling should also be a part of your treatment.
Addiction and Mental Health Disorders
When someone has a mental health issue, she has a higher chance of abusing drugs and alcohol than a person who doesn’t. Many people with mental health disorders try to self-medicate with addictive substances. However, drug and alcohol abuse will only make the issue worse.
Dual diagnosis treatment addresses addiction and mental health disorders at the same time. It’s important to treat them simultaneously in order to give people the best chance at lasting recovery. If someone has an eating disorder alongside a substance use disorder, she also needs an eating disorder treatment program as part of her addiction treatment.
The Link Between Eating Disorders and Addiction
Not everyone who turns to drugs and alcohol is seeking a high. For some, drugs are a means of weight control. They may abuse stimulants that have appetite suppressing qualities. Others may skip meals so that they can drink alcohol without worrying about excess calories.
Someone with an eating disorder may have a great deal of anxiety over his weight. Like most people who have an unhealthy relationship with food, he has a preoccupation with his appearance. He may also turn to substance abuse as a way to cope with anxiety or depression. Eating disorder counseling can help him develop healthier attitudes toward food.
Why Eating Disorder Counseling in Addiction Treatment Is Necessary
Addictions and eating disorders have underlying issues. If you’re abusing drugs and alcohol along with dealing with anorexia or binge eating, the root causes of your problems could be similar.
There are treatment facilities that address these types of co-occurring disorders. You’ll take part in eating disorder counseling as part of treatment. You’ll be able to identify the core issues that contributed to how you see food as well as the issues behind your addiction.
This comprehensive treatment covers all areas of your health, which eating disorders and addiction can affect on all levels. You’ll also move into a healthier state physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Creating a Healthier Future at Crestview Recovery
You can find the dual diagnosis treatment you need in Portland, Oregon. Here at Crestview Recovery, we help our clients get a fresh start as they work to overcome addiction. Furthermore, our dedicated professionals provide personalized care that meets the needs of each client.
The treatment programs we offer include:
- Gender specific rehab
- Holistic drug rehab
- Trauma therapy
- Mental health disorder treatment
- Rehab aftercare
Finally, it’s time to live a healthier, happier life. Let the team at Crestview Recovery show you the way to a future without addiction. Contact us today at 866.262.0531 to learn more.
