The Link Between Addiction and Depression
If you have never struggled with drug addiction and depression, you may not realize that there is a specific link between the two. Individuals who struggle with some type of mental health issue such as depression, are more likely to turn to drug or alcohol addiction as a way to cope. For a period of time, drug addiction or alcohol addiction is something that can help a person to ignore the feelings of depression that they may be feeling. However, the reality is that substance abuse is something that can only make depression worse.
Unfortunately, countless people don’t realize that they are struggling with depression. When you decide to partner with Muse Treatment Center, we go through an intensive process that can help to uncover not only depression but also any other mental health issues that you may be facing. From there, we can incorporate a dual diagnosis treatment program into your recovery process so that you can heal both physically and psychologically.
Symptoms of Depression
There are several telltale signs of depression. Although the signs of depression may be lost specifically if you or a loved one is struggling with the added component of addiction, just a few of the symptoms of depression include:
- Loss of pleasure in things you once loved
- Sadness
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Irritability
- Changes in appetite
- Suicidal thoughts
As a loved one, you will most likely notice this behavior shift. If you have serious concerns regarding possible suicidal thoughts of your loved one, you should get in touch with emergency services as soon as possible.
See why celebrities in recovery often return to rehab here:
Celebrities in Recovery: Why Colin Farrell Went Back to Rehab When He Hadn’t Started Drinking Again
Helping a Loved One With Drug Addiction and Depression
If you suspect that a loved one is struggling with drug addiction and depression, there are several steps that you can take to help your loved one work through these struggles. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Be patient
It’s important to remember that you can never force your loved one into treatment. It is a decision that they will need to make on their own. Therefore, you must remain supportive and patient when it comes to treating your loved one.
Gather resources
Learning more about addiction while your loved one is looking to receive treatment and after is something that can be incredibly helpful for you and your family. Also, you can attend your own support groups to help you develop a better understanding of addiction.
Stage an intervention
An intervention is something that may be an eye-opening experience for your loved one. Your loved one may not realize the extent of their substance abuse or even their mental health issues. An intervention is something that can bring that to light and help that loved one begin to heal.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Muse
When you are ready to work through your drug addiction and depression or help a loved one struggling with these conditions, we encourage you to get in touch with Muse Treatment. At Muse Treatment, we offer dual diagnosis treatment programs to help you address your substance abuse and mental health issues. The first step is to reach out to our intake team. Our intake team is available around the clock to provide you or your loved ones with the help and care that you or your loved one needs. For more information about our dual diagnosis treatment program, please contact our addiction treatment experts at (800) 426-1818 today.
