While there is still some discussion about whether addiction is a medical condition or a mental disorder, it is commonly understood in an inpatient dual diagnosis treatment in Cincinnati that it may be classified as a co-occurring disorder.
People who are addicted to drugs or alcohol often have significant changes in their actions, perceptions, wants, and priorities, which can interfere with many parts of their lives, including relationships, education, job, and accomplishing daily activities.
As a result, it is clear that the symbiotic yet complicated link between mental illness and addiction exists. So, how are they connected, and does one cause the other, or both?
History of Addiction and Mental Illness
The Relationship Between Addiction and Mental Illness
The main belief, which dates back to the 1930s, was that individuals were hooked to drugs and alcohol as a result of their own choices and lack of self-control. The most significant finding is that drug abuse was regarded as a moral issue rather than a mental disorder.
As a result, because addiction was not seen as an illness as it is now, treatment options such as dual diagnosis treatments at a rehab center were not considered.
What’s the Connection?
Co-occurring disorders are defined as two or more mental disorders happening in the same person simultaneously and are exceedingly prevalent, according to research.
Substance abuse is exacerbated by mental illness, which is a significant risk factor. A variety of things influences addiction. These are some of them:
Biological Factors: gender, age, genetics, and developmental stage
- Environmental Factors: peer influence, family dynamics, cultural norms, and media representation
- Mental Health Conditions: depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety
Individuals suffering from addiction are twice as likely as the general population to also suffer from mental illness.
Those who suffer from one of the prevalent mental illnesses are twice as likely to become dependent and addicted to their substance of choice.
How Does Addiction Affect the Brain?
Drugs and alcohol activate the brain’s reward region, causing the release of chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Dopamine is produced when these chemicals are ingested, resulting in short-term emotions of exhilaration and pleasure.
Because the brain and body recognize this excitement and satisfaction, it fuels someone’s desire to regularly participate in harmful addictive behaviors like binge drinking or drug use.
Stages of Drug Addiction
- Experimentation
- Tolerance
- Regular Use
- Drug Misuse and Abuse
- Drug Addiction and Dependency
Treatment for Mental Illness and Addiction
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
It is crucial to remember that untreated mental illness can lead to serious physical problems and even death. Relapse is a real possibility, and without competent help from an inpatient or outpatient recovery clinic, the addiction cycle will continue.
Medication management, several forms of therapy, relapse prevention, and other comprehensive services are part of dual diagnosis treatment.
Are You Looking for an Inpatient Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Cincinnati?
If you’re dealing with addiction and mental illness, and you’re wondering if your mental disorder has been compromising your recovery all along, remember that there will always be a way out. There will be people who will help and guide you on your path to recovery.
Don’t suffer in silence. Break the cycle of addiction by contacting Georgetown Behavioral Hospital today!
