How to Tell If It’s Addiction or a Mental Health Disorder

Mental health is at the heart of many complications in life. Yet, not everyone has the same symptoms, and sometimes you may not know that a disorder is occurring. Sometimes, you may be using alcohol or drugs and be unable to stop. You may be wondering a simple question that seems impossible to answer. Do you have an addiction or a mental health disorder?

In reality, you may have both, and the most important thing to know is that treatment for both can transform your life and provide you with relief from your symptoms. You do not have to continue to suffer from these conditions.

Mental Health Hope provides those who have mental health disorders and substance use disorders (SUDs) with treatment that is safe and effective. Reach out to us now to find the type and level of care you need.

Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders

Mental health disorders and SUDs happen frequently together, with some reports indicating that as many as half of those who have an SUD also suffer from mental health disorders. This can include the use of alcohol, prescription medications like opioids or benzodiazepines, as well as illicit drugs like cocaine and heroin.

Some people see the onset of their mental health disorder occur after they start using substances significantly. You may see symptoms of conditions like:

• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Anxiety
• Schizophrenia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Panic disorders

These conditions can often be debilitating, making it hard for you to get through the day and navigate your life’s responsibilities.

Sometimes, mental health disorders come first. You may be dealing with trauma or depression and turn to a substance for relief of those symptoms. The substances you use may provide you with a mental break from the symptoms you have, such as turning off the anxiety for a period of time or giving you more focus while you battle intense situations. Yet, as soon as the substance wears off, your complications increase.

How to Be Diagnosed with Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health Disorders

While it is important to understand the underlying cause of your condition, it is not always possible for a person to know which came first – the SUD or the mental health disorder. However, if you have any of the following signs of co-occurring disorders, getting into a treatment program is beneficial.

• Withdrawing from family, friends, and activities you enjoyed
• Excessive worrying and overwhelming negative thoughts when not using a substance
• Constantly craving or seeking out access to the substance, especially as it becomes a priority to use every day
• Feeling like you cannot get through the day without access to the substance
• Struggling with responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Financial and legal problems

If you are unsure what may be happening to you, one of the best steps to take is to request a formal diagnosis from a provider who specializes in co-occurring disorder treatment. Doing so allows you to learn what is happening and, most importantly, what treatment options exist.

Finding Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment Near Me

Anyone who is experiencing a life-threatening mental health or physical health condition should seek immediate medical attention. That includes calling 911 for an overdose risk or calling 988 for being at risk for suicide.

For others, finding treatment can mean a phone call to Mental Health Hope. We work with individuals to find the best type of treatment for their unique condition. There are several options available for those with co-occurring disorders, including:

• Detox: This initial program allows you to receive immediate support for your mental health while allowing your body to detox from the substances in a controlled environment.
• Residential treatment: A longer program, typically lasting several weeks or up to several months, residential treatment involves living at a treatment center to receive around-the-clock care. You’ll work with a therapist and in group therapy to overcome both conditions.
• Mental health retreats: A retreat allows you to work towards stability as well as immediate help for mental health disorders using medication management, individual and group therapy, and a wellness focus. These programs tend to range from a few weeks to several weeks.
• Outpatient programs: Care programs like partial hospitalization programs and intensive outpatient programs provide treatment for numerous hours most days of the week (with various levels of care provided) but allow you to go home at night.

Finding the right balance of care means carefully considering all factors contributing to your current state. Let our team help you navigate the options available to you. Contact Mental Health Hope for a free over-the-phone assessment to find out what type of care may be best suited to your co-occurring disorders. You may not know if you need help right now, but we can find out for you.