Are Sobriety and Mental Health Connected?
If you or a loved one is struggling with the consequences of addiction, did you know that there is a possibility that that person may also be struggling with a variety of mental health issues as well? Several people don’t understand the direct connection between sobriety and mental health. If a person is struggling with mental health issues, it’s possible that those mental health issues could contribute to their substance abuse issues.
For example, if a person is suffering from depression or anxiety, there is a likelihood that they could turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to try to cope with what they are thinking and feeling. This is something that is commonly referred to as a form of self-medicating. Self-medicating can happen for many reasons. People may not realize that they are actively struggling with a mental health issue or may be too embarrassed to admit to their feelings. As a result, they turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope which can lead to several other issues and challenges.
Common Factors That Contribute to Substance Abuse and Mental Illness
Many different factors can contribute to substance abuse and mental illness. Just a few examples of these common factors associated with these health concerns include:
- Physical abuse as an adult or a child
- Psychological abuse as an adult or child
- Growing up in an environment where you were exposed to substance abuse
- Experiencing a traumatic event when you were an adult or child
One of the important details you will focus on during the time you work through any type of treatment program is the root cause of your substance abuse and mental health issues. This is something that is primarily done through participating in different forms of addiction therapy. Although addiction therapy is indeed something that can be challenging to work through, the rewards and benefits of incorporating therapy into treatment are undeniable. Examples of addiction therapy that you will experience during the time that you’re in treatment are:
Group therapy
Group therapy is a form of counseling that can be particularly helpful when it comes to an understanding that addiction is something that impacts every person differently. Not only that, but you will learn that you will be able to experience support and understanding from people who are working through their own treatment programs. During group therapy, you will be able to share your addiction experiences and listen to others who have their own thoughts and opinions about the topics at hand.
Individual therapy
There are likely certain events in your life that you may not feel comfortable sharing with others. In cases such as this, individual therapy can be beneficial because you will have the opportunity to speak with a member of our team in a personalized setting to work through the challenges you may be facing.
Behavioral therapy
Unfortunately, when a person suffers from issues with sobriety and mental health, they often develop negative behavioral patterns. As a result, one of the best things you can do is participate in behavioral therapy. Taking this step will help you to ultimately recognize bad behavior, which can help you avoid falling back into the trap of addiction again.
Family therapy
Unfortunately, your relationship with your family is something that can suffer as a result of your mental health and addiction. Family therapy is something that can start to bring your family back together and heal. The added support you receive from your family can help you in your overall recovery journey.
What Are the Mental Health Benefits of Addiction Treatment?
The advantages of addressing any mental health concerns while you’re working through an addiction treatment program. First and foremost, by addressing your mental health concerns, you put yourself in a better position to overcome your addiction once and for all. When you have a better understanding of the genesis of your substance abuse, you are more prone to avoid making the same mistakes that you did before when it comes to giving in to the temptation of substance abuse.
Addiction treatment can also give you the change to your environment that you need to meaningfully commit to your recovery. For example, if you’re in a toxic environment and surrounded by other individuals who are suffering from their own mental health or substance abuse issues, you may find that it’s beneficial for you to complete an inpatient treatment program. The leading benefit of inpatient treatment is that you can change the people, places, and things around you, which may lead you to mental health issues and substance abuse. Inpatient treatment allows you to live on our campus and be surrounded by our addiction treatment experts. Not only that, but you will also be able to interact with other people who may be experiencing the same type of struggles that you are. This can help you to make meaningful relationships and move forward in your recovery journey.
Some people aren’t able to commit to inpatient treatment or don’t feel comfortable with the premise of it. In cases like this, we recommend you utilize an outpatient treatment program such as intensive outpatient treatment or a partial hospitalization program. Each treatment program provides you the flexibility you may need to see to these work or school responsibilities. This flexibility also comes with a certain level of comfort because you won’t feel like you’re choosing between your health or your work or school responsibilities.
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How Dual Diagnosis Treatment Can Benefit Your Recovery
A dual-diagnosis treatment program is something that can be incredibly beneficial for a person who is struggling with sobriety and mental health. This type of program is something that can help to address both aspects of the struggles that you may be facing. Part of dual diagnosis treatment may be incorporating a medication to help you to better manage the psychological consequences of your mental health issues. During this time, your treatment team will help to oversee your medication. This program also pays special attention to the nuances of substance abuse and mental health issues.
Take Control of Your Happiness and Health Today
If you feel you’re struggling with your sobriety and mental health, the team at Muse Treatment Center is here to provide you with the support you need to navigate what you’re thinking and feeling as you start to work through your recovery. We want you to take control of your life to live a healthy and prosperous existence. This is why our treatment team is available around the clock to provide you with the guidance you need during this difficult time in your life. Reach out to us at (800) 426-1818 today and take your first steps toward your recovery.
