Mental Health

Depressive Disorders

Depression is a mood disorder marked by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. When paired with substance use disorder, individuals may turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate and relieve depressive symptoms. Key symptoms include persistent low mood, loss of interest in daily activities, changes in appetite and sleep, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts of death or suicide. Effective treatment involves integrated approaches that address both depression and substance use, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication management, and support groups.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders include various conditions marked by excessive fear, worry, or panic, often leading individuals to use substances to manage their symptoms, which can result in a co-occurring substance use disorder. Common types of anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Symptoms typically involve excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. Effective treatment includes integrated therapy for both anxiety and substance use, employing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, medications, and mindfulness techniques.

Bipolar Disorders

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings, including manic and depressive episodes. Substance use can worsen these mood swings and complicate management. Symptoms of manic episodes include elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, reduced need for sleep, and impulsive behavior, while depressive episodes mirror those of major depression. Treatment typically involves mood stabilizers, psychotherapy like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family-Focused Therapy, and dual diagnosis approaches that integrate substance use treatment with bipolar disorder management. Psychoeducation for patients and families is also crucial.

Personality Disorders

Personality disorders involve enduring patterns of behavior, perception, and inner experience that significantly deviate from cultural norms, often leading to interpersonal difficulties and potential co-occurrence with substance use disorders. Common types include Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), and Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Symptoms typically involve persistent issues with self-image, difficulty managing emotions and behavior, challenges in maintaining stable relationships, and impulsive or risky behaviors. Treatment often includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other specialized therapies, integrated plans for co-occurring substance use, medication management, and supportive therapy with skills training.

Attention deficient / Hyperactive disorder

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can increase the risk of developing substance use disorders as individuals may use substances to manage their symptoms. Symptoms include difficulty sustaining attention, excessive movement, impulsive decision-making, and disorganization. Treatment typically involves behavioral therapy and coaching, medication management with stimulant and non-stimulant options, integrated approaches for both ADHD and substance use, and psychoeducation and support groups.