Is it possible to have anxiety and depression at the same time? Anxiety and depression are mental conditions people suffer when they are sober or addicted to alcohol or drugs, including recreational and prescription medications. Substance abuse and mental health issues combined are disorders called co-occurring. It is normal for people to feel anxious occasionally and at times to feel down or experience the blues when responding to stress and pressure. But if those feelings are continuously affecting you, they can be an underlying mental health issue. If you or someone you know have co-occurring disorders, put away the stigma and shame and seek professional help.
What is Co-Occurring Disorder?
Co-occurring disorder is a condition diagnosed of an individual having two or more mental disorders and substance addictions. Over 9 million adults have a co-occurring disorder in the United States. It is never easy dealing with substance abuse, drug addiction, alcoholism, or a mental disorder. Whether you are struggling personally with problems or a parent desperate to help an adult child, counseling and treatment are helpful for recovery.
Signs of Co-Occurring Disorder
One noticeable sign is the use of alcohol or drugs to cope with repulsive feelings, traumatizing memories, face fears, control pain, and concentration. Other signs are feeling depressed and unbalanced even when you’re sober. Visibility of any of those signs is a cry for help, requiring immediate intervention. It is vital to learn the signs and symptoms of co-occurring disorder to get the appropriate treatment necessary to restore mental and physical health. Symptoms can be dangerous and affect the following:
- Ability to function normally at work, school, and home.
- Maintain healthy relationships with your family at home and co-workers.
- Handle difficulties in life.
- Communicate to people.
When you receive a diagnosis of depression or anxiety the problem of substance abuse can worsen. Mental health problems are likely to increase when drug or alcohol abuse rises. You should never ignore co-occurring disorders because they can become severe and harmful. Mental disorders have different symptoms that are recognizable in people.
Symptoms of Anxiety
- Rapid heartbeat
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Extreme worry
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
Symptoms of Depression
- Inability to experience happiness.
- Guilty feelings
- Fatigue
- Anger
- Reckless behavior, especially in men.
- Physical pain
Treatment for Substance Abuse and Mental Conditions
- Psychotherapy Counseling
- Medications
- Social Support
- Techniques for Reducing Stress
- Regular Exercise
- Improving Sleeping Habits
The signs and symptoms are noticeable in observation of people abusing drugs and/or alcohol. You don’t have to feel there is no way out and that nobody cares. With the right support of a professional psychotherapist and loved ones, the journey will eventually help you face your shadows. The best treatment is an integrated approach, requiring treatment for both the substance abuse issue and the mental disorder instantaneously.
Long-term recovery relies on receiving treatment for co-occurring disorders by the same psychotherapist. A treatment plan may include meds, group and/or private counseling, support, self-help, and changes in your lifestyle. Addiction recovery methods will give you a chance for a better life and to repair relationships. The results with dedication and commitment include:
- Reclaiming your self-worth.
- Transformation of how you think about yourself.
- Adapting to a new and rewarding lifestyle.
Remember, you can defeat anxiety, depression, and substance abuse believing in yourself and receiving the appropriate treatment. It is never too late to get your life back on track and start fresh with a different attitude and way of thinking. Seek help in the northeastern and eastern regions in the US, including:
- Delaware
- Florida
- Ohio
- New Jersey
- Ohio
- New Hampshire
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Rhode Island
- Pennsylvania
We work with people of all ages, especially adults 18 to 30 years. Co-occurring is a serious condition involving two or more disorders. It is very difficult fighting anxiety, depression, and substance abuse of alcohol and/or drugs alone. You will need a professional psychotherapist, support group, and nurses on your team during the recovery stages.
Relapse after recovery can happen but maintaining a healthy lifestyle and disconnection from the wrong crowd can prevent it. Reclaim your life and start anew with a different outlook and attitude. Become the warrior you are within to face the shadows blocking your happiness and enjoyment of living life to its fullest. Call us today at 833-820-2922 and speak with one of our counselors to schedule an appointment for a consultation and to receive treatment. We are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week.