Why do depression and drug addiction often go hand-in-hand? Either of these conditions can occur first, leading to the onset of the other. Using drugs to cope with the underlying symptoms of depression is relatively common, yet it creates a number of health risks. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we offer a complete treatment program that can help break the grip both of these conditions have on your health and mental wellbeing. To learn about the dual diagnosis treatment program that we offer, please call Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston at 866.516.8356.
The Link Between Depression and Drug Addiction
Depression is a chronic mental health disorder. It may be brought on by trauma or a chemical imbalance. Sometimes stress and life circumstances create depression. Many people with it don’t seek out help for the symptoms they have. However, they still need to find a way to cope, so they turn to drugs and alcohol to help themselves deal with those symptoms. Over time, that use increases, and the risk of addiction and dependence occurring is very high.
How to Spot Depression and Drug Addiction Occurring Together
It’s hard to acknowledge your need for help. Yet, if you know you are struggling with depression and using alcohol or drugs to manage it, addiction treatment can be beneficial. Some of the most common signs that you may need this type of treatment include:
- Using drugs as a way to get through the day
- Needing to use drugs as a way to manage stress, anxiety, or emotions
- Being unable to get through the day without a drink
- Needing to use increasing amounts of the drugs to get the same reaction
- Feeling intense emotions if you do not use
- Self-isolating and wanting to disengage with life as much as possible
Many people with these concerns refuse to acknowledge there is a problem. That is part of what depression can do. Many give up on relationships, social activities they enjoyed, and other experiences that they once considered fun. Furthermore, they may include struggling to maintain relationships. Many push other people away by creating strife and arguments.
Why Does Depression and Drug Addiction Happen Together?
A person who is depressed is unable to enjoy things they used to enjoy. The body’s chemical and hormonal balance is not regulated correctly, leading a person to be unable to interact with others. Most of the time, a person wants to feel good and engage with others but cannot make themselves do it. Like any other disease, this is a condition that requires professional support and guidance.
Over time, depressive symptoms increase so much, so a person needs to find a way to deal with them. That may come in using stimulants that can create a false sense of activity and energy. Some use alcohol, a depressant itself, to ease some of the feelings they have.
It is also important to note using drugs can lead to depression as well. In this case, the drugs can damage the pleasure center of the brain, making it hard for someone to feel pleasure without using those drugs. Over time, this becomes debilitating.
How Can You Get Help for These Co-Occurring Disorders?
Co-occurring disorders like depression and drug addiction are treated through dual diagnosis. This is a very effective way of managing both conditions at once. In our treatment program, you’ll start with therapies such as:
- Behavioral therapy programs
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Family therapy program
- Trauma therapy program
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Yoga therapy program
A dual diagnosis treatment program can change a life.
Turn to Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston for Immediate Help
Depression and drug addiction sometimes happen together. When they do, it can be challenging to decide to get help. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we provide a warm, comfortable space for you to start on the path towards healing. Learn more about each of our treatment programs by reaching out online to us or calling 866.516.8356 for help.
