Depression and Addiction

How does depression cause addiction?

Addiction is a common issue amongst people who are experiencing a depressive disorder. Alcohol is classified as a central nervous system depressant. This means it will actually trigger typical symptoms of depression like sadness, lethargy and hopelessness. Many people who are depressed reach for alcohol and drugs as a way to numb the pain. This tends to lead to depression and addiction further feeding each other and each condition making the other amplified.

When someone is experiencing both addiction and depression, it is often referred to as a dual diagnosis. This diagnosis can be made with a variety of mental disorders combined with different addictions, such as mental disorders (bipolar, anxiety, depression) and other forms of addiction (sex, gambling, alcohol and drugs).

How can I get treated for both depression and addiction?

The treatment of depression and co-occurring addiction can be very challenging. When they occur concurrently, the treatment should focus on both disorders simultaneously. A plan for your treatment takes into consideration the symptoms you experience during depression, like low motivation, low energy and the feeling of general hopelessness.

During the beginning stages of recovery, inpatient residential recovery may be considered as the best option—especially in circumstances where the individual seeking treatment has thoughts of suicide or has a history of self-harm.

An inpatient center can give 24/7 support to clients as they detox and start treatment for their mood disorder. As the patient progresses through treatment stages, a move to partial hospitalization and outpatient programs will offer a higher level of independence.

Statistics have shown that addictions to drugs and alcohol are higher amongst those who also have depression. Mental illnesses and drug addictions require an integrated treatment plan, that allows both their mental health needs and the need to begin detoxification (detox) and rehabilitation to be addressed.

Professionals in the mental health field are a valuable asset for intervening in the process of someone with depression. With the advice and counsel of a therapist, families can also learn more about depression and develop a better understanding of how to relate to someone suffering from it.

Am I suffering from depression?

Sometimes feeling down is just a normal part of life—it has its ups and downs. But when the emotions of hopelessness and despair won’t go away, this can very well be a sign of depression. Recognizing the causes of depression and the different symptoms can be the first step to overcoming the problem.

Depression is a mood disorder that is very common and debilitating. It’s more than just sadness in response to life’s issues, obstacles, and struggles. Depression can change how you think, feel, and how you function in your day-to-day life. The feelings of helplessness and worthlessness can be unrelenting and intense, and it may feel like you have little to no relief.

Some people have described it as literally living in a black hole of despair, with feelings of apathy, lifelessness, and emptiness. Men can typically exhibit more symptoms of anger and agitation. However your symptoms may manifest, when they are left without treatment they can become a serious health issue. It’s important to remember a lot of the negative feelings are just symptoms of the depression, and not the reality of your situation.

The 10 common symptoms that are associated with depression:

  • Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness: Feeling unable to change your situation with a bleak outlook on life.
  • Loss of interest in daily activities: Lack of joy in hobbies, socializing, and even sex.
  • Changes in appetite and weight: An increase or decrease in weight of more than 5% in a month.
  • Changes in sleeping patterns: Trouble sleeping or chronic oversleeping.
  • Mood changes, easily agitated and angry: Low tolerance and short temper; can result in restlessness or aggression.
  • Lack or loss of energy: Even small tasks may feel exhausting or take longer than usual.
  • Self-loathing, low self-image: Harsh self-criticism and feelings of guilt or worthlessness.
  • Reckless behavior: Engaging in dangerous activities like substance abuse or risky driving.
  • Problems concentrating: Difficulty with focus, memory, and decision-making.
  • Unexplained aches and pains: Frequent complaints of physical issues like backaches, headaches, or stomach problems.

About Cliffside Malibu

You don’t have to go through this alone. Our dedicated staff is here for you every step of the way to help pull you out of your depression and give you the tools you need to sustain a healthy, happy life.

Upon entering Cliffside Malibu, each patient is carefully assessed and a custom treatment plan is created for not only their immediate needs, but also for their long-term recovery. Each patient is matched with one of the five stages of the Transtheoretical Model: Precontemplation, Contemplation, Preparation, Action, and Maintenance. This ensures they receive the best possible care for their stage of change.

Cliffside Malibu offers a full continuum of care, including medically supervised detox, residential treatment, day treatment, and outpatient services. Services are available for individuals with a primary diagnosis of substance abuse and/or alcohol addiction, and are delivered in a safe, supportive environment built for long-term sobriety.

For more information, visit cliffsidemalibu.com.

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