Mental Health and Substance Abuse: How Are the Two Connected?

There is an undeniable connection between mental health issues and substance abuse. An individual who suffers from both conditions is said to be experiencing a dual diagnosis. More often than not, dealing with a single disorder is quite problematic, so when it comes to two, things become even more difficult. That is why behavioral health care is crucial when it comes to mental health and substance abuse. This article will examine the connection between the two conditions to create awareness about them.

Mental Health and Addiction

The question that most people often ask is whether mental health causes substance abuse. The National Institute on Mental Health states that about fifty percent of those suffering from mental disorders also struggle with substance abuse. This also happens the other way around, meaning people struggling with substance abuse also struggle with issues of mental health. While there are clear statistics on the prevalence of the two disorders, a debate continues to exist over which condition comes first, and the answer to this is not clear-cut. However, despite the arguments, there is an agreement among mental health specialists that each of the two conditions influences the onset of the other.

Causes of their Relationship

The connection between mental health and substance abuse is affected by the risk factors linked to each. For instance, a traumatic event could easily trigger a mental health condition such as depression. Additionally, a traumatic event could result in poor coping mechanisms which could eventually lead to experimentation with drugs and other substances later causing addiction.

Secondly, family genetics could also contribute to the connection between mental health and substance abuse. While no single gene can predict mental health or inclination to addiction, genes could increase the risk.

Third, environmental factors can also play a role in the association between mental health and substance abuse. Your family’s socioeconomic background and the culture you are part of determine your level of exposure to substances and also determine the stress you experience. As a result, this significantly contributes to concerns about mental health.

Lastly, neurological factors including brain maturation and neurotransmitter could affect your mental health and inclination to substance abuse. For example, consuming alcohol and drugs as a teenager can trigger addiction, resulting in mental problems.

Co-Occurrence of Mental Health and Addiction

The common mental disorders that coexist with substance abuse include bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, depression, ADD, PTSD, and eating disorders. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the question between mental health and substance abuse is quite obvious, with one leading to the other, explaining the co-occurrence of two disorders.

Bottom Line

Mental health disorders and substance abuse usually have identical symptoms, making diagnosis and treatment a bit challenging. For that reason, when you suspect to be suffering from mental health or addiction, or both, it is advisable to seek assistance from a specialist experienced with co-occurring conditions to get the assistance needed. This professional will diagnose and give you the specialized treatment you need.