Mental Health and Addiction

What is meant by ‘mental health’?

Mental health is a vital part of our overall well-being, covering our emotional, psychological and social health. It shapes our thoughts, feelings and actions in everyday life, influencing everything we do.

Good mental health isn’t solely about avoiding mental illness. It’s about sustaining a balanced state where you can handle life’s usual stresses without negatively impacting your daily activities.

Similar to physical health, mental health needs regular care and attention. This involves seeking support when necessary, especially if you notice any negative changes in your thoughts, feelings or behaviours. Taking steps to care for your mental health can enhance your quality of life and overall happiness.

What are the signs of poor mental health to look out for?

Recognising signs of mental health decline can help in seeking appropriate support and intervention. However, it’s important to note that this is a blanket term for poor mental health, and symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific mental health issue someone is experiencing. Here are some key signs to look out for:

• Changes in mood: Persistent sadness, irritability or mood swings that are more intense than usual.

• Social withdrawal: Avoiding friends, family and social activities that were previously enjoyable.

• Changes in sleep patterns: Insomnia, oversleeping or frequent nightmares.

• Changes in eating habits: Noticeable weight loss or gain, loss of appetite or overeating.

• Difficulty concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks, making decisions or remembering things.

• Decreased energy: Feeling fatigued or having low energy levels, even after resting.

• Physical symptoms: Unexplained aches, pains or other physical issues without a clear cause.

• Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness: Persistent feelings of despair or a sense that nothing will improve.

• Increased substance use: Relying more on alcohol, drugs or other substances to cope.

• Changes in personal hygiene: Neglecting personal grooming or cleanliness.
• Unexplained anger or agitation: Increased irritability, anger outbursts or difficulty managing emotions.

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide: Any expression of self-harm or suicidal thoughts should be taken very seriously and addressed immediately.

These signs can be indicators of various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and more. The specific symptoms and their intensity can differ greatly from person to person. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, reaching out to a mental health professional for support and guidance is important. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing mental health effectively.

The link between mental health and addiction

The connection between mental health and addiction is both well-documented and complex, and in this section, we aim to explore the link between the two:

Co-occurring disorders

Often, when someone has a mental health disorder, they might also struggle with substance use, a situation known as a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder. It’s quite common for people dealing with mental health issues to turn to substances to cope with their symptoms, and in some cases, those with addictions could develop mental health issues. 

Factors like genetics, brain chemistry and environmental influences such as trauma and stress can play a significant role in both mental health disorders and addiction.

If you’d like to learn more about different types of mental health disorders and how addictions could affect them, feel free to explore the following dual diagnoses:

Self-medication for mental health issues

For many, substances like drugs or alcohol become a way to alleviate the symptoms of conditions like depression, anxiety or PTSD. Unfortunately, this can lead to dependence and addiction over time. Without healthier coping mechanisms, using substances can become a way to manage overwhelming emotions or stressful situations.

Mental health issues caused by addiction

Addiction to drugs or alcohol could lead to the development of mental health issues, creating a vicious cycle that’s hard to break. It’s important to recognise that some individuals might have had a pre-existing psychological vulnerability, even if they weren’t aware of it. The use of drugs or alcohol can significantly worsen their mental health, intensifying feelings of anxiety, depression or paranoia. This worsening state can lead to increased substance use as a misguided attempt to self-medicate, further deepening their addiction and mental health struggles.

It’s also possible that being addicted to substances could bring on mental health issues in a person who has no prior issues with mental health. For example, a drug-induced psychosis could be brought on with excessive drug usage.

Treatment options available for mental health issues

When it comes to treating mental health issues, the approach depends on a thorough analysis by a medical professional. They will assess the severity of your condition to determine the most suitable treatment option. Here are some common treatments:

• Therapy and counselling: This includes various forms of psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and other forms of talk therapy. These methods help individuals understand and manage their thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
• Medication: Psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilisers and anti-anxiety drugs, can help manage symptoms. A healthcare provider will determine the right medication and dosage for your specific needs.
• Lifestyle changes: Incorporating regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can significantly impact mental health. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, are also beneficial.
• Support groups: Joining support groups allows individuals to share experiences and coping strategies with others facing similar challenges. This peer support can be incredibly valuable.

If your mental health issue co-occurs with addiction, a healthcare professional might suggest a comprehensive rehab programme. This integrated approach treats both the addiction and mental health issues simultaneously, ensuring a more holistic recovery process.

What are the next steps?

If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health issues that include addiction, know that there’s support available for you. Contact UK-Rehab for a tailored search for the best treatment option for you or your loved one. Your better and brighter future starts today.