A substance use disorder is a big problem for the person struggling with drugs or alcohol. In fact, it can feel all-consuming. So much so that it might seem like no other problem you might be having could possibly be as impactful on your life.
As it would turn out, however, mental health disorders are often entangled with a substance use disorder. In some cases, that might be because a person started using drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate against the symptoms of a mental health disorder. In other cases, the use of drugs or alcohol might steadily chip away at a person’s mental health.
In the end, it does not really matter which sort of disorder developed first. The only thing that matters is that both are addressed. If you only treat the substance use disorder, the mental health disorder will always threaten your ongoing recovery. If you only treat the mental health disorder, the ongoing use of substances will undermine that hard work to improve your well-being.
At Wooded Glen Recovery Center, we are dedicated to addressing both kinds of disorders. Let’s take a look at some of the mental health disorders that might be in play when you seek out treatment for substance use disorder.
Depression is One Word that Describes Many Issues
As a rule, folks tend to toss the word “depression” around a little haphazardly. You might hear it used as a synonym for “sadness,” for example. Or you might hear it applied to any of a number of specific issues that fall under the broad category of “depression.” This imprecision means that many people are somewhat confused about the true nature of depression.
The reality is that depression manifests in many different ways. A person might struggle with what is known as major depression, for example. Or they might face persistent depressive disorder. A person might deal with seasonal affective disorder (known as SAD) during certain times of the year. Or a person might experience postpartum depression after the birth of a child. Bipolar disorder is also counted among the varieties of depression.
In this blog post, we will not detail the differences among all of those kinds of depression (though there is plenty of good information at the link). The important point here is that “depression” is more complicated than a single word might indicate. That is why getting treatment from experts is so important.
Anxiety is More than Simple Worry
We all worry from time to time. After all, there are plenty of uncertainties in life, and each of those uncertainties can inspire feelings of worry. But those normal worries are different from an anxiety or panic disorder.
People who struggle with anxiety feel worried even when they have nothing in particular to worry about. The sensation can be overwhelming—so much so that a person with an anxiety disorder may find it hard to function. A panic disorder might indicate less persistent feelings of anxiety, but intense panic attacks can be equally disabling.
While there are some good strategies for dealing with anxiety in the moment, addressing the underlying anxiety or panic disorder requires expertise—especially when a disorder is twisted up with a substance use disorder.
Talking About Trauma
Some mental health disorders develop as a result of traumatic experiences. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a perfect example. The disorder is often associated with those who have served in the military and experienced combat, but PTSD can also be experienced by those who have suffered abuse, been in a serious accident, experienced a natural disaster, and more.
Those who struggle with disorders centered on traumatic experiences often find themselves trapped in the past, feeling as though they are experiencing the trauma all over again. It is, perhaps, understandable that a person facing these flashbacks might be tempted to turn to drugs or alcohol to find relief. In any event, expert care is essential for addressing issues like PTSD.
There are Many More Mental Health Disorders
We do not intend the disorders mentioned above to serve as a comprehensive list. The fact is, there are many, many different kinds of mental health disorders—many of which can become interwoven with a substance use disorder. Addressing co-occurring mental health disorders is an extremely important aspect of treating a substance use disorder.
We Are Ready to Treat Co-Occurring Disorders
At Wooded Glen Recovery Center—located in Henryville, Indiana—we offer personalized treatment for those struggling with substance use disorders, including those who are also dealing with a co-occurring mental health disorder. We are highly trained, have years of experience, and are committed to evidence-based practices when providing treatment for any disorder.
Wooded Glen Recovery Center has been recognized as one of the nation’s best substance use disorder treatment centers each of the last two years. That means you can count on us to provide the highest level of care as we help you leave drugs or alcohol behind. When you are ready to make a change that will transform your life, we are ready to help you get your recovery journey underway.