Addressing Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions: A Critical Part of Addiction Treatment

In many instances, addiction often co-occurs with other mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety. This can be a struggle on many levels, with over 37% of alcohol abusers and 53% of drug abusers having at least one serious mental illness. Let’s look at how and why is understanding co-occurring mental health conditions a critical part of addiction. 

What are co-occurring mental health conditions?

Co-occurring mental health condition is the co-existence of two or more mental conditions at the same time. Individuals may experience symptoms of both co-occurring conditions, which can also make it difficult to identify symptoms of a specific concern. 

Among the many co-occurring conditions, addiction can often cause or worsen another mental health concern. Alcohol or drug abuse could interfere with the ability to perform at work, at school, and in social relationships.  A co-occurring mental health condition could also be diagnosed when a medical condition leads to an increased dependence on substance use.

Also read: What is the difference between alcohol dependence and alcohol addiction?

Which develops first?

There could be either of the two conditions that can develop before the other. Sometimes, people with depression, anxiety, or PTSD could rely on substance abuse or even self-medicate which can turn into an addiction. People with chronicle substance use could develop symptoms of depression, anxiety, or mood disorders. It could also be a case where neither of the conditions causes the other.  

Also read: How to Overcome Your Nicotine Addiction: A Step-by-Step Guide

Causes of co-occurring conditions

The causes of co-occurring conditions can depend on various factors, making them multifaceted. Some factors include:

• Genetics: Addiction can be passed through genes which can make a person more susceptible to developing a co-occurring mental health condition.

• Traumatic events: Certain events can trigger the development of both - addiction and another mental health condition.

• Environmental/Social factors: Factors like peer pressure, lack of finances, culture, unhealthy friendships, and unstable households can increase the risk of developing both addiction and a mental health condition.

Impact of co-occurring conditions on addiction recovery

According to the DSM-5, an increased risk of an alcohol use disorder can be associated with other conditions including bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, antisocial personality disorder, and specific anxiety and depressive disorders. 

The severity of addiction and the co-occurring mental health conditions may change or differ over time. However, if either is left untreated, it could increase the chances of relapse.  One might also find it difficult to keep up with dealing with the emotional aspects of the treatment. 

What are some treatment approaches?

Co-occurring conditions can make addiction recovery even more challenging. But, with appropriate treatment, individuals can find relief from both conditions and maintain long-term recovery.

Also read: Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome: All You Need To Know

Integrated approach

Treatment approaches depend on each individual’s needs. Usually, integrated treatment options work best for co-occurring conditions. This involves considering both conditions simultaneously and working on symptoms that overlap. 

Therapy and medications

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is among the most widely used therapy approach which helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that may contribute to a person’s addiction and mental health conditions. Another commonly used therapy approach is dialectical behaviour therapy, which helps reduce maladaptive behaviours and change unhealthy patterns. Based on severity, medications such as antidepressants and antipsychotics may also be prescribed for some symptoms of the condition. 

Group support

Apart from therapy and medication, support groups can also help one feel less isolated where people can witness and be inspired by the recovery of other members.

Dealing with co-occurring mental health conditions can be difficult and isolating. It is important that you be patient, recognise your triggers, seek support, and use healthy ways to cope with daily stressors.